Wests Tigers great responds to fan backlash as new coaching appointment sparks controversy
Benji Marshall is said to be keen on bringing another former teammate into the mix.
Wests Tigers great Chris Lawrence has backed a reported move to add former teammate Brett Hodgson to Benji Marshall's coaching staff, saying it would be a big step towards erasing the joint venture's 'meme club' reputation. Hodgson, who was the Wallabies' defence coach in last year's disastrous World Cup campaign, is understood to be in line for an assistant's job under Marshall.
The pair played alongside each other in the club's 2005 grand final win and have kept in close contact since retirement. Marshall has shown a preference to work with former teammates, employing the likes of Robbie Farah, Chris Heighington and John Morris since taking on the job this year.
It's led to claims of nepotism at the Tigers. One fan wrote on social media this week: "The club needs less jobs for the boys right now and all the experienced 1st grade coaching we can get. If this next Gen of talent is lost or goes by without success then the club may as well be finished."
Chris Lawrence hits back amid Brett Hodgson criticism
Lawrence, who played 253 games for the Tigers, responded: "If you check Hodgo’s CV I think you might be surprised." The fan replied: "I’m sure it’s great but we need to start earning respect as a club and end the meme club era. Hiring the old band members won’t do that."
Lawrence came back with: "Agree regarding ending the ‘meme club era’. In this case a coaching staff addition should be the best person for the job. Many will look at Hodgo as ‘jobs for mates’, which they (the Tigers) wouldn’t be doing. Hodgo would be one of, it not the best assistant coaching option available now. Tigers would be lucky to have Hodgo. All things equal he would already be an NRL coach by now."
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Hodgson coached Hull FC in the UK Super League between 2021 and 2022 before working alongside Eddie Jones during stints with the England and Australian rugby teams. The former fullback was employed as assistant coach at the Wests Tigers in 2018 and also as head coach of the club's feeder team, the Wests Magpies.
He said at the time: "It's great to be back. I'm still living out at Campbelltown which is where I grew up. I've always wanted to be a coach. When you get to your late 20s and it's potentially coming to an end, you look to that next stage in your life. I'm really enjoying it so far. "
The Tigers will head into the 2025 season looking to avoid a fourth straight wooden spoon.
