MANLY SEIZE MOMENT: LEGENDARY COACH DES HASLER APPOINTED AMBASSADOR AND ADVISOR
Manly Sea Eagles have pounced on a golden opportunity to bring back their most celebrated coach Des Hasler, announcing his appointment as team ambassador and advisor just months after he concluded his contract as Gold Coast Titans head coach at the end of the 2025 NRL season in August.
The club confirmed the deal today, with Hasler – who has been taking a break to explore his future options – revealing he was drawn back to the Northern Beaches by his deep connection to the Sea Eagles. “Manly is where some of my greatest coaching memories were made,” Hasler said. “When the opportunity came to return in these roles, it felt like the right fit at the right time. I’m not looking at a head coaching role for 2026 – that’s still up in the air – but I’m excited to contribute to the club that gave me so much.”
Hasler’s departure from the Titans earlier this year left him as one of the NRL’s most respected free agents, with several clubs expressing interest in his services. Manly acted swiftly to secure his expertise, with chairman Scott Penn describing the appointment as a “coup” for the Sea Eagles. “Des is a legend of our club and the game,” Penn said. “His knowledge, experience and passion for Manly are second to none – having him back in our fold will be invaluable for our players, coaches and staff.”
Hasler’s tenure at Manly was nothing short of extraordinary. Taking charge in 2004, he transformed the club from semi-finals contenders into genuine powerhouses, delivering two NRL Premierships in 2008 and 2011 – the latter coming via a dominant 40-0 Grand Final victory that remains one of the most convincing in modern history. He also led the Sea Eagles to a World Club Challenge triumph in 2009 and guided them to multiple finals appearances, establishing Manly as a force in the late 2000s and early 2010s. His exceptional work in 2008 earned him RLIF Coach of the Year honours.
In his new roles, Hasler will mentor current head coach Anthony Seibold, provide strategic advice on game planning and player development, and represent the club at community and corporate events. “My focus is on supporting the current team to reach their potential,” Hasler added. “Manly has a bright future, and I’m proud to play a part in shaping it.”
Fans have already welcomed the news with enthusiasm, with social media ablaze with messages celebrating the return of one of the Sea Eagles’ greatest figures.
