The Perth Bears have announced the appointment of Ben Gardiner as assistant coach under head coach Wayne Bennett, as the team prepares to enter the NRL in 2027.
Gardiner, who served as interim head coach of Samoa in 2023 and previously worked under Michael Maguire at the Wests Tigers, brings a wealth of experience to the new franchise.
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His coaching background also includes time with the North Sydney Bears in the NSW Cup, aligning him with the club’s heritage as it transitions into the NRL landscape.
This appointment marks a strategic move by the Perth Bears, signaling their intent to build a strong, experienced coaching team as they gear up for their debut.
Wayne Bennett, a veteran coach with multiple premierships to his name, is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the club’s foundation, and Gardiner’s inclusion adds depth to the coaching structure.
The NRL’s expansion into Perth has generated significant interest, and the recruitment of seasoned professionals like Gardiner is viewed as essential to the club’s long-term competitiveness.
