Michael Maguire

About Michael

Michael Maguire, often referred to as “Madge,” is a renowned Australian rugby league coach and former professional player.

Michael has established himself as a prominent figure in the world of rugby league through his highly successful coaching stints and playing career. His journey in rugby league began as a player. Michael played as a fullback, centre, and winger for the Canberra Raiders in the early to mid 1990s. Unfortunately Michael broke a bone in his neck playing against the Warriors. With great resilience, Michael made a comeback however sustained another neck injury ending his playing career. This injury and early retirement from the game sent Michael down the pathway of coaching.

Michael’s transition into coaching will no doubt define his legacy in the sport.

Michael’s coaching career started with various assistant coaching roles. He played with and was coached by Craig Bellamy at Canberra, before learning his trade as assistant to Bellamy at the Melbourne Storm from 2004 to 2009, a period during which the team experienced significant success. This tenure was instrumental in shaping Michael’s coaching philosophy and style characterised by discipline, hard work, and tactical acumen.

In 2010, Michael took on his first head coaching role with Wigan Warriors in the English Super League. His impact was immediate and profound. In his first season, he led Wigan to their first league title in 12 years, winning the Super League Grand Final. Under his guidance, Wigan also secured the 2011 Challenge Cup. Michael’s success at Wigan earned him a reputation as a top-tier coach, known for his ability to transform teams and install a winning culture.

Michael returned to the NRL in 2012, taking over as head coach of the South Sydney Rabbitohs. His tenure at South Sydney was marked by a historic achievement. In 2014, he guided the Rabbitohs to their first NRL Premiership in 43 years, ending a long-standing drought and cementing his status as one of the elite coaches in the sport. His time at South Sydney was also noted for developing young talent and fostering a resilient team-oriented culture.

After parting ways with the Rabbitohs in 2017, Michael briefly stepped away from coaching in the NRL but remained active in the rugby league community. He took on roles such as coaching the New Zealand national team, where he brought a renewed sense of competitiveness and structure.

In 2019, Michael was appointed head coach of the Wests Tigers, tasked with revitalising a struggling team. Despite facing numerous challenges, including roster changes and injuries, Michael’s tenure at the Tigers was marked by efforts to rebuild the club’s strong work ethic and discipline.

Michael’s coaching style is characterised by a focus on fitness, defence, and mental toughness. He is known for his meticulous preparation and ability to motivate players to perform at their best. His impact on teams often goes beyond immediate results, fostering long-term improvements in club culture and player development.

In November 2023, Michael was named as the head coach of the NSW Blues. Michael took the reins and led NSW to a magnificent series win against the QLD Maroons. They became only the third Blues team in State of Origin history to win a decider in Brisbane!