Sport

Kearney signs on with Warriors for three more years

10:41 am on 26 February 2019

Warriors coach Stephen Kearney has extended his contract with the National Rugby League club until the end of the 2022 season.

The deal will see Kearney, 46, remain in the role for six seasons, joining Ivan Cleary (2006-2011) as the longest-serving head coach in the club's history.

"Securing Stephen for another three years is a huge boost for us," Warriors chief executive Cameron George said.

"We haven't enjoyed a lot of stability as an organisation, especially in the coaching area. Without stability in our football department it's extremely challenging to improve and to achieve continuity," he said.

"We've been talking with Stephen for some time about ensuring he remains to continue the work that has been going on and we couldn't be more pleased he's staying on for another three years," said George.

Stephen Kearney Photo: Photosport

After four seasons as an Auckland Warriors player from 1995-1998, Kearney is now on track to take his connection with the club to a total of 10 seasons with his new contract.

"When I first came back to the club, I was honoured to be given the opportunity to help the club move forward and improve," he said.

"I'm pleased to have my future sorted out with this new contract and to know I'll be with the club for a few more years.

"We made progress last season but, to be honest, the focus for me is always what's next for us and that's preparing for this week's trial against Wests Tigers in Whangarei."

The Vodafone Warriors' season-opening match against the Bulldogs on 16 March will be Kearney's 50th as the club's head coach and his 92nd overall.

After finishing his playing career in 2005, Kearney moved straight into coaching, starting with five seasons as an assistant coach with Melbourne as well as launching a nine-year term as Kiwis coach in 2008.

During that time, he guided the Kiwis to three major titles - the World Cup in 2008 and the Four Nations in 2010 and 2014.

Coaching career:

Warriors head coach 2017-2019

New Zealand Kiwis head coach 2008-2016

Brisbane Broncos assistant coach 2013-2016

Parramatta Eels head coach 2011-2012

Melbourne Storm assistant coach 2006-2010

Playing Career:

International: 45 Tests for Kiwis 1993-2004

NRL: 264 first-grade appearances 1992-2004

Western Suburbs: 46 appearances 1992-1994

Warriors: 79 appearances 1995-1998

Melbourne Storm: 139 appearances 1999-2004

Super League:

46 appearances for Hull FC 2005