The Wests Tigers have confirmed the departure of assistant coach John Morris, who will exit Concord following the conclusion of the 2026 season.
Morris was a former Tigers player and played alongside head coach Benji Marshall during three seasons of his NRL career from 2007 to 2009.
He went on to play 300 NRL games, and returned to the Tigers in 2024 to help aid Marshall during his early years as a head coach.
Morris was named head coach of the Cronulla Sharks from 2019 to mid-2021 in a rebuilding era for the Shire-based club.
Marshall says he is extremely grateful for the contributions Morris made to the Tigers in his three years.
"Bomber's experience and professionalism has been invaluable to me and the team, especially as a new Head Coach. I will always be thankful and grateful for his support,'' Marshall said in a Tigers statement.
"John is a very accomplished coach, and I wish him all the very best."
Morris represented the Newcastle Knights, Parramatta Eels, Tigers, and Sharks during his decorated NRL career.
Tigers chief executive Shaun Mielekamp echoed Marshall's sentiments.
“John's a great family man and someone we've really enjoyed having in our program,” Mielekamp said.
“We're grateful for his contribution to the Wests Tigers over the last three seasons and wish him all the best in the future.
“John has a long history with the Wests Tigers and remains a valued member of our alumni.”
Mielekamp also added there will be a review of the men's NRL program at the completion of 2026.
After a season which started with plenty of promise, the club is looking to go back to the drawing board for where they can improve in 2027.
“We're currently working through a review of our men's program – which is standard practice after any season – led by our Senior Manager of NRL, Pat Richards,” the Tigers boss added.
“It's a process that will look at all elements of our program and set the foundations for the 2027 season and beyond.”
