‘Important milestone': Panthers assistant Ben Gardiner signs long-term deal to join Mal Meninga's coaching staff at Bears
Inaugural Perth Bears coach Mal Meninga has locked in a key piece of his staff with Panthers assistant Ben Gardiner set to join the expansion side on a five-year deal that could mean he eventually takes over the team.
Gardiner is regarded as one of the best coaches in the game having played an important role as an assistant at the Panthers for their 2023 and 2024 premierships, while he's also in charge of the Samoan side.
He will be a huge asset for Meninga in the club's formative years, with Gardiner holding a special connection with the Bears having coached North Sydney for three seasons in the NSW Cup.
'I can't wait to work closely with new people in Western Australia and build a hugely successful team over the next five years as we promote rugby league and grow the game,' he said.
'I have had a close relationship with the North Sydney Bears for a number of years where I was able to coach the NSW Cup team and work in coaching and recruitment as well as with the women's team.
'These experiences allowed me to understand what makes that great club tick.
'These foundations need to be synergised into the Perth Bears to grow a collaboration of new and old.
'I have been able to experience success in winning systems across a number of elite clubs in the NRL and look forward to sharing that knowledge.'
While nothing has been suggested as of yet, the Bears could follow the Dolphins who had Wayne Bennett in charge for the first couple of years before Kristian Woolf took over.
It's something Perth could look to do with Gardiner, who can learn off Meninga before eventually replacing him when the Immortal's contract expires in 2028.
'He has worked with some great clubs and teams, at premiership and representative level, and he also has Bears DNA to add to his prolific experience,' Meninga said.
'I look forward to Ben helping us to build a club and culture which will set the Bears' future on the right path.'
Gardiner will join the Bears at the end of the 2025 season and will remain Samoa coach as they prepare for next year's World Cup.
'We're extremely excited to have Ben join the team,' Perth Bears chief executive Anthony De Ceglie said.
'He's a winner who's renowned for his football knowledge and hard work ethic.
'This is another important milestone as we ensure the Perth Bears lay the right foundations for future success.'
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