Wests Tigers announced a significant development in their leadership and coaching structure as Benji Marshall has officially extended his contract as head coach until the end of 2030. This extension will see much-needed stability come to the club, according to Shaun Mielekamp, the new interim CEO of Wests Tigers. This is especially true as it arrives at a tumultuous time for the program.
Mielekamp, who was put in place on an interim basis earlier this week, underscored the importance of Marshall’s new agreement. This deal just might allow the Panthers to keep their long-term core players, including Jarome Luai and Jahream Bula around. Mielekamp is no stranger to the sport, having spent nine years as the Central Coast Mariners CEO in the A-League. Moving forward, he wants to lay the best possible groundwork for the long-term future of Wests Tigers.
“We’re looking forward to this extension providing the kind of stability we’re all looking for,” Mielekamp said.
Mielekamp’s first public duty was to announce the contract extension, which he believes will positively impact the club’s culture and player retention strategies. Additionally, he expressed his commitment to maintaining the Wests Tigers name and upholding the club’s tradition of playing four home games at Leichhardt Oval and at least seven at Campbelltown Sports Stadium from 2029.
As he becomes more familiar with this role, Mielekamp has already made strides to reach out to the fanbase. “I’ve spent the last 48 hours calling as many members of West Tigers that I could,” he said. He encouraged fans to reach out, assuring them that “every member of Wests Tigers can contact the club and can find time to speak with myself and representatives of the club.”
While Mielekamp is proud of his company’s commitment to fan engagement, like all teams and leagues he knows there’s a firestorm of discontent bubbling underneath supporter surfaces. A Wests Tigers fan rally is being held this Saturday, where fans will demand a change in ownership and management at the club. Beyond the immediate frustration with the plan’s lack of inclusion, it is a clear signal of the community discontent that is brewing.
The next full board meeting this Monday will be critical to deciding whether or not the club’s future rests on a more progressive path. HBG is raising the number of directors to a majority five. Former NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell and two other independent directors are expected to be reappointed to the board. This would mean that Dennis Burgess, HBG chairman, would resign from his position as well, another clear sign of a transitional period ahead for Wests Tigers.
“Mielekamp still believes he could be a candidate for the permanent CEO job. You’ve got a voice here with me and I want to hear it and I want to listen,” he emphasized, reinforcing his commitment to ensuring that fans feel heard during this pivotal time.
