Karyn Murphy first female head coach in NRLW

Gold Coast Titans expands on its commitment to the women’s game with the creation of a new full-time role. Here is what they’re doing.

Australian Jillaroos legend Karyn Murphy will leave the NRL integrity unit to become head coach of the Gold Coast Titans NRLW team, the club has confirmed.

As director of female rugby league, Murphy will coach the Titans NRLW team and also focus on developing the women’s game year round from Logan to Lismore.

The former Australian captain replaces outgoing coach Jamie Feeney.

Titans CEO Steve Mitchell said it was thrilling to have Murphy on board.

“Karyn is an icon of our game and someone who is highly respected for what she has achieved,” Mitchell said.

Karyn Murphy, assistant coach of the Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons will be taking up the top coaching role with the Gold Coast Titans Women’s team.

As the only female head coach in the NRLW competition Mitchell said her work in the role will inspire new and developing female coaches within the game.

“Having Karyn dedicated full-time to our programs will allow us to grow both our high performance and pathway programs,” he said.

“Karyn will help co-ordinate and deliver Future Female Titans Academies, the Titans School Girl Cup and work with our rugby league schools of excellence which is crucial in ensuring our pathway programs allow local juniors to progress to NRLW level.”

Murphy’s playing career spanned 15 years that included four World Cup campaigns, 27 games for Australia and 20 games for Queensland.

A decorated former senior police inspector, Murphy leaves the NRL after seven years of service to the game as the Senior Investigator for the NRL’s Integrity Unit.

Making her international debut in 1998, Murphy played 27 tests including World Cup Success in 2013.

Murphy is the current Australian assistant coach with Feeney and Jillaroos coach Brad Donald.

From the Titans strong start in their inaugural season Murphy will be tasked to bring together a competitive squad to keep that momentum for the club in their second season.

She will be assisted by former Storm premiership winner Matt Geyer.