Entire Wests Tigers administration ousted as former NSW premier returns to embattled NRL club
The Wests Tigers NRL club has undergone a complete restructuring of its leadership following an independent assessment, appointing Barry O’Farrell, former New South Wales premier, as interim chair and Shane Richardson, former Souths boss, as interim chief executive.
Formed in 1999 through the merger of Western Suburbs Magpies and Balmain Tigers, the club’s recent performance has been lacking, having last reached the top eight in 2011 and finishing at the bottom in 2023. Despite winning the NRL premiership in 2005, the club has only made it to the finals three times since its inception.
The changes involve the resignation of Chief Executive Justin Pascoe and the removal of Chair Lee Hagipantelis, with Pascoe stating that the review signifies an opportunity for the club to start anew. Tony Andreacchio, a longtime Wests Ashfield member and current director, expressed gratitude towards Hagipantelis and Pascoe, acknowledging their efforts while emphasizing the club’s determination to succeed.
An interim board, comprising O’Farrell, David Gilbert, Danny Stapleton, and a nominee from the Wests Magpies, has been established. Stapleton emphasized the unity among shareholders in supporting the changes, aiming to rejuvenate the club’s competitiveness both on and off the field.
The restructuring follows an independent review and has been endorsed by the club’s shareholders, Balmain Tigers Rugby League Football Club and Wests Magpies. The latter holds effective control due to Balmain’s default on a loan in 2014, with the decision for change influenced by the club’s 12-year absence from the finals.
Benji Marshall, a member of the 2005 premiership-winning team, transitions into his first season as head coach, succeeding Tim Sheens. O’Farrell, previously serving as Wests Tigers chair in 2019 before his diplomatic assignment, reassumes his role amidst the club’s transformation.
The club is revamping its roster, parting ways with Luke Brooks and recruiting rugby union winger Solomon Alaimalo. Fullback Jahream Bula, despite narrowly missing out on the Dally M Rookie of the Year award in 2023, has committed to the Tigers until 2027.
