"Galvanised a nation": Why Townsend 'loves' Webster's contract extension

Andrew Webster is remaining with the Warriors into the next decade, with Chad Townsend praising the decision by club officials to extend his contract.

Having started in 2023, the former Penrith and Wests Tigers assistant has been an instant success for the club, winning Dally M Coach of the Year in his first season and making the finals in two of his previous three seasons.

That success has continued in 2026 with the Wahs firmly in the top four and on track for their equal best finish during the 44-year-old’s tenure.

As a result, on Thursday, Webster was extended through to 2032, seeing him have the longest coaching contract in the competition.

Should Webster see out the deal, he'll become the club’s longest-tenured coach in its history, having been in charge for 10 seasons.

Reflecting on the news, the 2016 Premiership player was a big fan of the move.

“I love it, I love it,” Townsend professed on SEN’s Kick Off.

“Andrew Webster has completely changed the fabric and the DNA of the Warriors football side.

“In the last four years, I describe the Warriors' style of play as ruthless, controlled; they're a side that value the hard parts of the game.

“They look more connected than ever. Their fan base is more passionate and more supportive of this football team than it's ever been in history.

“He's galvanised a nation around rugby league.”

Townsend also pointed out that under Webster, the club's reputation has changed for the better.

“They didn't work, they didn't value the hard parts of the game, the little things,” he continued.

“The little areas, the kick pressure, the filling the space, the parts that not many people see.

“If I ask you five years ago, ten years ago, ‘Hey, do you ever think a Warriors side could be at the top of the league for completions over the course of a season?’

“You probably would have said no, that's not the way the Warriors play.

“Andrew Webster deserves every single season he's got on top of his contract.”

The Warriors are in a top eight clash against the Rabbitohs this Saturday at Accor Stadium.

Kick-off is at 5:30pm AEST.