Shane Richardson, the interim CEO of Wests Tigers, is set to continue his leadership at the helm as he steps into the role officially for a four-year term effective from July. His journey with the club in this official capacity comes after he was rumoured to be heading back to the troubled Rabbitohs, a team he formerly managed.
Richardson took over the reins of the Wests Tigers back in December, following sweeping alterations that were undertaken at the club as a result of an independent review. His appointment as CEO seems to spell a new era of stability and permanence.
In a statement released by the newly appointed CEO, Richardson expressed deep excitement about the future of the club, stating “This is a fantastic opportunity for me to assist this club win its second premiership, and I look forward to working with Benji and the team to achieve that goal.” Richardson’s enthusiasm and commitment to the union truly stand out.
According to Richardson, the Wests Tigers is so much more than just a football club. It’s a tight-knit community filled with passionate, faithful members, and supported by a massive follower base. “We’re on a journey, come with us,” he enthused.
The Tigers, despite ending their last two NRL seasons holding the wooden spoon, have been actively bolstering their line-up by attracting successful players like Jarome Luai, a three-time premiership-winning playmaker from Penrith, who will join them from the next season. Additionally, the Tigers recently added another asset to their team in the form of Luai’s teammate, Sunia Turuva, who will also commence playing from the next season.
Under the direction of their former player-turned-coach, Benji Marshall, the Tigers are currently not in the top spots for the finals. However, the team is putting up a commendable fight, having already secured two victories this season. This is already half of their achievement from each of the past two seasons – and all within just seven starts.
Barry O’Farrell, the interim chair for the Tigers and former premier of New South Wales, commented that the appointment of Richardson was an “absolute no-brainer”. Richardson’s contributions, since his interim takeover, have made not just a significant impression on the members, staff, and sponsors of the club, but have also defined his unmistakable leadership capabilities.
O’Farrell clearly stated that “No club can afford to let champions go, whether on the field or in the front office,” underscoring the invaluable nature of Richardson’s contributions to the team.