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Kieran Foran Appointed Manly Sea Eagles Head Coach Through 2029

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Kieran Foran Appointed Full-Time Head Coach of Manly Sea Eagles

Kieran Foran has been appointed as the full-time head coach of the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, signing a contract that extends through the 2029 NRL season. Foran initially took the role on an interim basis after the club dismissed Anthony Seibold in late March 2024, following the team's 0-3 start to the season. Under Foran's leadership, the team achieved a significant turnaround in performance, leading to his permanent appointment.

Coaching Transition

Appointment Details

  • Seibold's Departure: Anthony Seibold was removed from his position as head coach on a Friday evening after the team lost its first three games of the season. Seibold had held the position since 2023 and had a coaching record of 37 wins from 77 games, with one finals series appearance. His contract had been extended through the 2027 season.
  • Foran's Interim Appointment: Foran, who had been serving as an assistant coach under Seibold, was appointed interim head coach for the remainder of the season. He accepted the role after being contacted by club officials Chairman Scott Penn and CEO Jason King.
  • Permanent Appointment: Foran was subsequently confirmed as the full-time head coach, signing a three-year contract that runs until the 2029 season.

"Foran's strong connection to the club was a key factor in his decision to accept the position."

Foran's Background

Kieran Foran, 35, played 196 games for Manly across two stints over nine seasons, including during the club's 2011 NRL premiership victory. He concluded his NRL playing career at the end of the 2025 season, having made 318 appearances over 17 seasons and played 34 Test matches for New Zealand. He was designated a life member of the club. Foran returned to Manly as an assistant coach before being elevated to the head coaching role.

Team Performance

Pre-Appointment

The Sea Eagles began the season with three consecutive home losses: a golden point defeat to Canberra, a loss to Newcastle, and a loss to the Roosters. In their last game prior to the coaching change, the team committed 13 errors, which created multiple opportunities for the opposing team.

Under Foran's Leadership

  • Foran led the team to seven wins in nine games following his interim appointment.
  • Over an eight-game period, the team led the league in points scored and fewest conceded.
  • Manly moved from contention for the wooden spoon to challenging for a top-four finish.
  • At the time of his permanent appointment, Manly had the third-best for-and-against record in the competition, behind only the Panthers and Warriors.
  • Captain Jake Trbojevic's form reportedly improved under Foran's coaching.

Subsequent Matches

  • Round 4 (vs Dolphins): Foran's first game as interim head coach was an away match against the Dolphins at Kayo Stadium. The team won this match, securing its first victory of the year.
  • Round 5 (vs St George Illawarra Dragons): Foran's team prepared to face the St George Illawarra Dragons. The Dragons entered the match without a win for the season, having lost their previous match 32-0 to the North Queensland Cowboys.

Statements from Foran

  • Foran stated he was surprised by Seibold's sacking and the subsequent offer to take on the interim role.
  • He expressed his strong connection to the club as a key factor in his decision to accept the position.
  • Foran confirmed he attempted to contact Seibold after learning of the dismissal on Friday evening but had not spoken with him. He credited Seibold with being instrumental in his early coaching development and stated he enjoyed working under him.
  • Foran indicated he does not plan to implement significant changes to the processes and structures established by Seibold.
  • He stated his immediate focus is to stabilize the team environment and improve team performance.
  • Regarding team composition, Foran stated he does not anticipate making widespread team changes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining cohesion.
  • Foran said he views coaching as a long-term career and is prepared for the associated pressure.
  • Before the match against the Dragons, Foran stated his team would not become complacent following its win against the Dolphins and was preparing for a "desperate" opponent.

"Foran does not plan to implement significant changes to the processes and structures established by Seibold."

Statements from Club Officials

  • Chairman Scott Penn: Praised Foran's impact on the playing group's belief and passion, and expressed confidence in his leadership. Penn stated that Foran's recent playing career provides him with an understanding of the current pace of the game.
  • CEO Jason King: Noted the uplift Foran brought in clarity, playing style, and standards, and confirmed unanimous support from owners, directors, players, and fans for Foran's permanent appointment.

Support from Players and Others

  • Tom Trbojevic (captain): Stated Foran would coach with the same dedication and competitive nature he showed as a player.
  • Reuben Garrick (player): Expressed confidence that Foran would lead effectively, drawing on his leadership qualities from his playing days.
  • Braith Anasta (NRL pundit): Identified Foran as a club legend with a strong understanding of success, high football IQ, and good relationships with players.
  • Des Hasler (former Manly coach): Provided support to Foran during the transition.

Context on Club Coaching Philosophy

The Manly Sea Eagles have a history of appointing coaches with strong ties to the club. Previous successful coaches Geoff Toovey and Des Hasler were former captains and premiership players. Mentors without such ties, like Trent Barrett and Anthony Seibold, experienced shorter tenures.