Foran named Sea Eagles's full-time coach, Chiefs sign NSW Origin rep

Manly Sea Eagles have officially appointed Kieran Foran as their head coach, signing him to a three-year contract that extends through the 2029 season. Foran has been serving as the team's caretaker coach since March, following the departure of Anthony Seibold.

Since taking the interim role, Foran has significantly impacted the team's performance, guiding them to seven victories in nine matches. This success has placed the Sea Eagles fifth on the league ladder. Sea Eagles chair Scott Penn expressed satisfaction with Foran's leadership, noting the belief and passion he has instilled in the playing group.

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We've been impressed with everything Kieran has done since taking on the interim role and are delighted to appoint him for the next three years. The belief and passion he has instilled in the playing group has more than delivered on our expectations.

"We've been impressed with everything Kieran has done since taking on the interim role and are delighted to appoint him for the next three years," Penn stated. "The belief and passion he has instilled in the playing group has more than delivered on our expectations." Penn highlighted Foran's deep club connection, extensive playing experience, and leadership as key factors in his selection.

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I'm truly honoured to be the head coach of a club that means so much to me, a club that has played a significant part in not just my footy career but my entire life. I care deeply about this club, and I want what's best for everyone involved in it. I will do everything within my power to make sure it's a success.

Foran, a former premiership player with the Sea Eagles in 2011, brings a wealth of experience from his nearly 200 NRL matches for the club. He also played for other NRL teams and represented New Zealand internationally. "I'm truly honoured to be the head coach of a club that means so much to me," Foran said. "I care deeply about this club, and I want what's best for everyone involved in it."

In other news, the PNG Chiefs have secured the signing of utility player Connor Watson on a two-year deal for the 2028 and 2029 seasons. Watson will play the 2027 season with the St George Illawarra Dragons before joining the Chiefs. Watson, who represented NSW in five State of Origin matches in 2024 and 2025, is the third player signed by the Chiefs for their inaugural season. Chiefs general manager of football Michael Chammas noted Watson's desire to be part of the club's journey.

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Connor has made it clear from the outset that he wanted to be part of the PNG Chiefs and this incredible journey we are building. Connor is the type of player every club wants. He is selfless, tough, professional and incredibly respected across the game.