A legendary rugby league player and coach, known for his impressive playing career and successful coaching stints, including leading Australia to World Cup victories.
Tim Sheens is a household name in the world of rugby league, renowned for his exceptional coaching skills that have earned him a string of victories and accolades throughout his career. With a playing career spanning over two decades, Sheens has coached some of the top teams in the sport, including the Australia national team, Penrith Panthers, Canberra Raiders, North Queensland Cowboys, and Wests Tigers.
Born on October 30, 1950, in Penrith, New South Wales, Sheens was born into a rugby league family and was educated at St. Dominic's College in Penrith and St. Gregory's College in Campbelltown. He was an accomplished player, representing his school teams and eventually playing as a prop forward for Sydney's Penrith club in the 1970s and 1980s.
Sheens' coaching career commenced in the late 1980s, when he took the reins of his former club, Penrith Panthers. He then moved on to coach the Canberra Raiders, leading them to victory in the 1989, 1990, and 1994 premierships. His success continued with the Wests Tigers, whom he guided to the 2005 premiership. In 2009, he was appointed the head coach of the Australia national team, a position he held until 2015. During his tenure, he set a new record for most games in Australian rugby league premiership history, a feat that has since been broken by Wayne Bennett.
In 2015, Sheens took on a new challenge, joining Super League club Salford Red Devils as Director of Rugby. He later joined Hull Kingston Rovers in 2016, coaching them in the Championship. In 2021, he returned to the Wests Tigers, working in pathways, development, and talent identification, before being announced as the club's coach for the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
Throughout his illustrious coaching career, Sheens has received numerous accolades, including the 2005 NRL Coach of the Year award. He was also inducted into the Australian Rugby League Hall of Fame in 2014.
Tim Sheens' contribution to rugby league is undeniable. He has inspired generations of players and coaches with his innovative coaching style and unwavering dedication to the sport. His legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements, having played a significant role in shaping the careers of numerous players who have gone on to achieve greatness in their own right.
"I've always said that the greatest satisfaction I get is not from winning, but from seeing players develop and achieve their goals." - Tim Sheens
Tim Sheens' remarkable career is a testament to his unwavering passion for rugby league and his ability to inspire greatness in those around him. As he continues to contribute to the sport, his legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
65 Years Old
Australian rugby league legend and coach, renowned for leading the national team to numerous World Cup titles and earning a reputation as one of the greatest players and coaches in the sport's history.
75 Years Old
A legendary rugby league coach and former player, known for his unparalleled success and innovative tactics that transformed the sport. He led several teams to championship titles and was inducted into the Australian Rugby League Hall of Fame.
77 Years Old
A renowned rugby league player, coach, and sportscaster, known for his exceptional skills on the field and insightful commentary off it. He's a legendary figure in Australian rugby league history.
65 Years Old
Australian rugby league legend, known for his dominant playing career and iconic commentary style. He's a household name in Australian sports, particularly in rugby league circles.
42 Years Old
Australian rugby league legend and iconic halfback, known for his exceptional skills, clutch performances, and record-breaking career with the North Queensland Cowboys and Australian national team.
53 Years Old
Australian rugby league legend, renowned for his exceptional playing career and successful coaching stints, including leading the New South Wales State of Origin team. He's also a popular sportscaster, known for his insightful commentary.