The hallowed turf of Langlands Park has entered a new era in 2026 following a historic partnership with the NRL’s newest club, the Perth Bears, and the appointment of two-time Hostplus Cup premiership winning head coach, Jim Lenihan.
A champion with the Burleigh Bears in 2016 and 2019 respectively, Lenihan joins the Brisbane Tigers following a six-year stint with the Gold Coast Titans as an assistant coach.
Lenihan has not only carried over premiership pedigree to the Tigers, but he’s also brought with him a plethora of new signings.
Ben Liyou and Oskar Bryant join the club from the Gold Coast Titans top 30 squad and Titans’ development pathways respectively, in addition to former Petero Civoniceva medallist Judah Rimbu and a host of other exciting prospects from the NSW and Hostplus Cup.
Speaking on his new recruits, Lenihan has been impressed on how well the new-look side has come together.
“We’ve had a high turnover of players, only 16 of the 40 players here last year are back for this season, so there are a lot of new faces from new places, but the group has gravitated towards one another really well,” Lenihan said.
“I’ve had a lot of experience with Ben Liyou and Oskar Bryant from the Gold Coast; they’re good trainers and very football-savvy. They’re a great addition to this group and they understand my language, so they can help the other boys decipher what I’m trying to say. We’re lucky to have them join us here.”
Despite Lenihan remaining solely focused on the upcoming 2026 season, the storied head coach is excited for 2027 and beyond, when his club’s partnership with the newest NRL franchise will tangibly begin.
“The club and I have been in close contact with Mal Meninga and Ben Gardiner this year, they’ve been really good to us with sharing ideas and identity. It’s been a good marriage so far,” Lenihan said.
“We’ll be receiving players from then in 2027 and beyond, and we’re grateful to have their support in the meantime.”
Lenihan will have his work cut out for himself in 2026 as he aims to return the Tigers to their former glory on the heel of two consecutive seasons without finals footy.
But if experience is any indicator of success, the Tigers are in good stead with Lenihan at the helm.
“I really enjoyed my six years with the Titans, I experienced a lot under Des [Hasler] and from Justin [Holbrook], and I learned plenty from the players,” Lenihan recalled.
“The game is always evolving and as a coach you have to evolve too. I’m trying to ensure that the squad here plays for each other first and foremost. We know we won’t win every game, the Hostplus Cup is a very tough competition, but we just have to compete every week and play our style of footy.”
