Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Benji Marshall is leading a cultural transformation at the Wests Tigers, with the club showing signs of genuine progress during the 2025 NRL season. While results remain inconsistent, Marshall's approach to coaching, accountability, and player management has created renewed optimism that the Tigers are finally moving beyond years of instability. For a club that has endured multiple wooden spoons and constant scrutiny, the shift matters both on and off the field.
For many Wests Tigers supporters, memories of Leichhardt Oval legends and the club's historic 2005 premiership remain defining moments. Since that title, however, sustained success has proved elusive as the joint venture struggled to establish a consistent identity.
Marshall embraces accountability
One of the most noticeable differences under Marshall has been his willingness to accept responsibility publicly.
Following the Tigers' heavy defeat to the Penrith Panthers earlier this season, Marshall openly apologised to supporters and described the performance as unacceptable. Rather than searching for excuses involving officiating, injuries, or scheduling, he focused on his team's shortcomings.
That approach has continued after narrow defeats. Even when disappointed by results, Marshall has consistently acknowledged areas for improvement while reinforcing expectations around effort and commitment.
His media appearances have reflected a modern coaching philosophy built on transparency rather than traditional gamesmanship.
A different coaching philosophy
Marshall's coaching style has attracted attention since he took charge of the club.
Unlike many experienced coaches who are known for maintaining strict secrecy around preparation, Marshall has spoken openly about the importance of maintaining balance between football and family life. His comments initially attracted criticism from some observers who questioned whether such an approach matched the demands of elite coaching.
However, allowing players and staff time to recharge during breaks is common practice across professional sport. Marshall has maintained that fresh minds are better equipped to perform consistently throughout the long NRL season.
That philosophy appears to have contributed to a healthier environment within the club.
Stronger leadership throughout the organisation
The Tigers have also shown greater stability away from the field.
When Jarome Luai confirmed his future move to the incoming PNG franchise beginning in 2028, the club handled the announcement professionally without allowing it to become a prolonged distraction.
In previous seasons, similar situations often generated extended controversy. This time, the Tigers addressed the issue directly before returning their focus to football.
That response reflected a more composed and organised administration supporting Marshall's long term vision.
Building a roster that matches the vision
Marshall has assembled a squad featuring players with confidence and individuality.
The current roster includes talents such as Api Koroisau, Sunia Turuva, Jahream Bula, Terrell May, and members of the Fainu family. Rather than discouraging outspoken personalities, Marshall has encouraged players to express themselves while remaining accountable to the team.
Terrell May's recent public comments about loyalty generated significant discussion, yet Marshall defended his front rower and welcomed honest opinions rather than criticising them publicly.
That approach has helped strengthen trust between coach and players.
Continued player development
Several individuals have shown noticeable improvement under Marshall's guidance.
Adam Doueihi has developed into an important organiser after playing multiple positions earlier in his career. Following his return from an eight week shoulder injury against Newcastle, Doueihi immediately influenced the Tigers' attack and provided valuable leadership.
The forward pack has also evolved. Terrell May continues to demonstrate impressive ball playing ability, while Alex Twal's return adds experience and reliability through the middle.
With injuries affecting the halves, Jock Madden has another opportunity to contribute alongside Doueihi as the Tigers continue searching for consistency.
Signs of progress despite disappointment
The Tigers' recent 12 to 6 loss to the Newcastle Knights highlighted both their improvement and the work still required.
They defended strongly for much of the contest, holding Newcastle scoreless for more than 50 minutes and taking a 6 to 0 lead into halftime. Ultimately, several late defensive lapses proved costly as the Knights completed their comeback.
Although disappointed by the result, Marshall pointed to the team's ability to compete with stronger opponents as evidence that progress is continuing.
Those performances suggest the Tigers are becoming increasingly competitive even if they have not consistently converted strong displays into victories.
Important weeks ahead
The Tigers currently sit outside the top eight and face a challenging stretch of fixtures.
Upcoming matches against the Dragons, Warriors, and Bulldogs will likely shape their finals prospects. Securing at least two victories during that period would significantly strengthen their chances of remaining in contention.
To achieve that goal, the Tigers must improve their concentration across the full 80 minutes while maintaining the aggressive running game that has become a feature of their best performances.
While they remain a work in progress, there is growing belief that Marshall has established stronger foundations than the club has enjoyed for many years.
Supporters who have waited patiently for sustained improvement may finally be witnessing the beginning of a genuine rebuild under one of the club's greatest ever players.
