LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Tim Sheens, the head coach of the Wests Tigers, is set to step down from his position one year ahead of schedule, allowing assistant Benji Marshall to take over in 2024.
This comes as a shock to many, as Sheens was expected to guide the team until the end of 2024.
However, the Tigers' dismal NRL season in 2023 has prompted this early change in leadership.
Despite the addition of Api Koroisau as the club captain, the Tigers have struggled and currently sit in 17th place, heading for their second consecutive wooden spoon.
The hopes of Sheens and Marshall turning the team's fortunes around have not materialized.
Tigers chairman Lee Hagipantelis confirmed that Sheens made the decision to step down on his own accord.
Discussions about restructuring the coaching staff were initiated by Sheens' manager, Chris Orr.
Hagipantelis emphasized that the decision was amicable and professional, and any suggestions of termination or betrayal are unfounded.
Sheens, a seasoned coach, was initially brought in to guide Marshall into the head coaching role before transitioning into the position of general manager.
However, with the team's struggles, it seems that Sheens and the club have decided to expedite Marshall's promotion.
The announcement of Sheens' early departure and Marshall's impending promotion has sparked intrigue and speculation within the rugby league community.
Many will be watching closely to see how Marshall handles the transition and whether he can bring success to the struggling Tigers.
Overall, while the decision may come as a surprise, it appears to be a strategic move by the Wests Tigers to shake up their coaching staff and give Marshall an earlier opportunity to prove himself as head coach.
Only time will tell if this decision will yield positive results for the struggling NRL team.