Snowy River Bears, Jindabyne Bushpigs announce coaching staff

Many of the region's rugby league and rugby union sides have commenced, or are close to kicking off their pre-season training ahead of the 2026 season. There has been plenty of movement on the coaching and playing fronts, despite it being the off-season. The Snowy River Bears have announced their senior men's coaching staff for 2026. Tui Samoa will take on the head coaching role, with support from assistant coaches, Jake Hedger and Ben Freebody. Hedger was at the helm last season as captain/coach before a season ending injury in the first month of the George Tooke Shield. Last month, the club held a charity golf day to raise money for Hedger's ongoing medical costs. Samoa's appointment won't surprise too many with the former United States international player a leading presence in the Bears club over a number of seasons. The damaging ball runner is a crowd and town favourite, and is a popular choice as head coach. The Bears ladies' league-tag has made three astute appointments in the coaching ranks with Ben Beattie head coach, Leonie Burns Sams assistant coach and Alyssa Zusak team manager. The club will commence pre-season training in the coming week. Fresh off an undefeated premiership season, the Jindabyne Miss Piggies have confirmed Rhianna Burke will return as head coach of the Miss Piggies in 2026. "Burke’s leadership, knowledge, and passion for the women’s game were key to the team’s success in 2025," a Jindabyne Rugby Union Club spokesperson said. The club said there is no better time than the present to join the women's and men's teams. "Whether you’ve played before, want to try something new, or are looking for a supportive and fun group of women to train with," the spokesperson said. The Bushpigs side will again have Liam Seiler as head coach. "After a solid rebuilding year in 2025, Seiler has recommitted to leading the boys into another strong season. His passion for the club and commitment to the squad sets the tone for what’s shaping up to be a huge season ahead," the spokesperson said. The club is already back on the training paddock, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays 6.30pm and 7.30pm. The Miss Piggies won their first premiership this year following a one-try win over Cooma in the grand final.

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