LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Pat Richards, a former premiership winner and NRL winger with the Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers, has been appointed head coach for the 2026 season.
Richards, who last played in the NRL in 2015, will lead the Western Suburbs Magpies' Under-17s Harold Matthews Cup team next season, succeeding Stephen Isdale as he aims to drive the team toward success.
Having previously mentored outside backs within the Tigers' pathways system, Richards brings extensive knowledge to the role as he prepares to guide the next generation of talent emerging from junior representative grades.
"We're really pleased to have secured the services of some talented young coaches, but more importantly people who embody the values of the club," stated Bronson Harrison, Head of Pathways at the Wests Tigers.
During his playing career, Richards participated in 119 NRL matches over eight seasons, culminating in a Grand Final victory with the Tigers in 2005 against the North Queensland Cowboys.
Outside of the NRL, he competed in over 260 matches in the Super League for the Wigan Warriors (2006-13) and Catalans Dragons (2016). He celebrated Grand Final wins in 2010 and 2013 and earned the prestigious Man of Steel award in 2010, which is akin to the Dally M Medal in Australia.
Richards also represented Ireland in seven international matches.