‘We will have sustained success’: Andrew Webster signs mega new deal as Warriors look to the future

Andrew Webster has been rewarded for a stunning debut season, with the Warriors coach signing a monster new contract.

The Warriors are in safe hands after Andrew Webster signed a new deal to remain coach until 2028. Picture: Fiona Goodall/Getty Images

The Warriors have moved swiftly to build on this year’s success, with the club extending coach Andrew Webster’s contract until the end of the 2028 season after he helped them get within one game of the grand final.

Webster was already under contract but the new deal ensures he’s there for the long term and has the chance to build something special across the ditch.

The 41-year-old arrived in New Zealand this year having worked previously with the club as an assistant before he eventually found himself in Penrith, where he played a key role in helping the Panthers dominate the NRL.

His future is now secured until 2028, with the Dally M Coach of the Year eyeing off Ivan Cleary’s club record of 154 games coached.

Andrew Webster has signed a new deal to remain at the Warriors on the back of being named Dally M Coach of the Year. Picture: Mark Kolbe/Getty Images

“I never wanted to leave in the first place, so now I get to lock up the future which I’m really grateful for,” Webster said.

“It was great being here as an assistant when I was at the club the first time and it’s even better now.

“There’s a bright future from our pathways through to our NRL roster and especially in the front office with Mark (Robinson) and (Warriors chief executive) Cameron (George). I truly feel we will have sustained success.”

The Warriors were the feel-good story of the 2023 season, with Webster and the club recruiting well to help them reach the preliminary final on the back of a new-found defensive resolve that had fans in New Zealand fall in love with footy again.

Halfback Shaun Johnson narrowly missed out on the Dally M, while Addin Fonua-Blake, Tohu Harris and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak all had huge seasons under Webster, who has the temperament to be one of the best coaches in the game.

Webster has helped make rugby league a force in New Zealand. Picture: Fiona Goodall/Getty Images

“Andrew has confirmed to us that he’s the right fit for our club and his skills as a coach are what we need to cement our long-term development through our pathways,” George said.

“He did an extremely good job this season and we have every confidence that he’ll continue to grow into the role.

“Both Andrew and I share the same vision, passion and commitment for success at our club on all levels.

“Another important element of extending his contract is that the stars of the future can see stability in long-term planning in the head coaching role and they see a coach who is driven to develop players of all age groups to become NRL players of the future for the Warriors.”