Ben Gardiner: A Rising Star in Rugby League Coaching
Ben Gardiner is an Australian rugby league coach known for his extensive experience and commitment to the sport. As of 2025, he serves as an assistant coach for the Penrith Panthers and the head coach of the Samoa national team. His coaching journey has been marked by significant achievements and a dedication to fostering talent both at the club and international levels.(TBR Rugby)
🏉 Coaching Career and Achievements
Gardiner’s coaching career began in the Sydney Roosters system, where he worked as a Strength and Conditioning specialist. This role allowed him to build valuable relationships within the rugby league community, notably with Ivan Cleary, who would later become his colleague at the Penrith Panthers .(TBR Rugby)
He later joined the South Sydney Rabbitohs, contributing to their NRL Grand Final-winning season in 2014. Gardiner’s coaching experience expanded as he took on roles with the Cronulla Sharks, North Sydney Bears, City Origin, and the NSW under-20s team. In 2021, he led the Western Suburbs Magpies to a second-place finish in the NSW Cup before the competition was suspended due to COVID-19 .(TBR Rugby, Reddit, Penrith Panthers)
In 2023, Gardiner joined the Penrith Panthers as an assistant coach, working alongside head coach Ivan Cleary and fellow assistant Peter Wallace. His appointment followed the departures of Cameron Ciraldo and Andrew Webster, who both took head coaching roles at other clubs .(FOX SPORTS, ESPN)
Gardiner’s international coaching credentials include serving as an assistant coach for the New Zealand Kiwis during the 2017 and 2022 World Cups. In September 2023, he was named head coach of the Samoa national team, succeeding Matt Parish. Under his leadership, Samoa participated in the 2023 Pacific Championships, facing teams like Australia and New Zealand .(Penrith Panthers)
🌍 Recent Developments and Future Prospects
In May 2025, reports emerged linking Gardiner to the head coach position at St Helens, a prominent club in the UK Super League. The club was reportedly considering a change following a series of disappointing performances under current coach Paul Wellens . While these reports have not been officially confirmed, they highlight Gardiner’s growing reputation in the international coaching arena.(TBR Rugby)
🧠 Personal Insights
Beyond his professional achievements, Gardiner’s personal experiences have shaped his approach to coaching. In June 2023, he shared a heartfelt story during the Beanie for Brain Cancer Round, revealing how a family tragedy inspired his commitment to the cause . This personal connection underscores his dedication to making a positive impact both on and off the field.(Penrith Panthers)
🔮 Looking Ahead
Ben Gardiner’s trajectory in rugby league coaching continues to ascend. Whether he remains with the Penrith Panthers or takes on new challenges internationally, his blend of experience, leadership, and personal dedication positions him as a significant figure in the sport’s future. Fans and stakeholders alike will be keenly watching his next steps as he continues to shape the next generation of rugby league talent.(Penrith Panthers)
