The New South Wales Rugby League (NSWRL) have officially unveiled Michael Maguire as the next head coach of the NSW Blues State of Origin team.
Maguire boasts a wealth of experience having coached 303 first grade games with Wigan in the Super League, the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Wests Tigers in the NRL including premierships with Wigan and South Sydney. Maguire recently finished his role as head coach of the New Zealand national side.
“It gives me great pleasure to announce Michael Maguire has agreed to a multi-year appointment as head coach of the NSW Blues starting from 2024,” NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden said in a statement.
“We all have expectations of immediate success in 2024 together.
“This gives the opportunity to provide sustained long-term success.
“Michael is a multiple premiership-winning coach in two hemispheres and has been successful in the international arena.”
Maguire vowed to bring everyone involved with NSWRL to ensure the Blues can bounce back after two straight series losses.
“The Blues Jersey is everything and we will ensure that we foster an environment that allows everyone to perform at their very best,” Maguire said in a statement.
“Leadership and culture will be critical to do this.
“We will be bringing everyone along the journey with us, and by that I literally mean everyone.
“From the front office, to the volunteer in Bourke and the thousands of junior footy players who idolise the Blues and are passionate about Origin.
“Everyone has a part to play and I want everyone across the state to feel a part of the Blues Origin camp.”
In addition to Maguire, NSWRL have made a number of changes to the coaching set-up. John Cartwirght, Matt King and Brett White have all been appointed as assistant coaches.