The PNG Chiefs have strengthened their coaching ranks ahead of their historic entry into the National Rugby League, confirming former Dally M Coach of the Year Anthony Seibold as an assistant coach for the club's inaugural 2028 Telstra Premiership campaign.
Seibold brings a wealth of experience to the expansion franchise, having coached 142 NRL games as head coach of the South Sydney Rabbitohs, Brisbane Broncos and Manly Sea Eagles. His appointment adds further depth to a coaching staff led by head coach Willie Peters, with former NRL player Luke Burt also serving as an assistant coach.
Beyond rugby league, Seibold has built an impressive coaching résumé across multiple sporting codes, including a role with England Rugby Union and his current position with AFL club Collingwood. His broad coaching background is expected to provide valuable insight as the Chiefs continue building the foundations of the club ahead of their NRL debut.
The appointment also reunites Seibold with Peters, with the pair having previously worked together at South Sydney and Newcastle.
Seibold said the opportunity to help establish Papua New Guinea's first NRL club was one he was eager to embrace.
"I'm looking forward to working with Willie Peters and supporting the vision that this club has," Seibold said.
"The Chiefs are building something special with strong values and great people, and I'm excited to play my part in helping them succeed.
"The chance to make a positive impact on players, staff and the wider community was a big reason I wanted to join the Chiefs. Success on the field is important, but building something that inspires people across Papua New Guinea is just as meaningful."
PNG Chiefs General Manager of Football Michael Chammas welcomed Seibold's appointment, describing the experienced coach as a significant addition to the club's football department.
"We're really excited about Anthony joining our coaching staff and believe that he will add a great deal to the playing group and football department as a whole," Chammas said.
"His experience in numerous roles across rugby league is a great benefit to us, and his time as a head coach in particular will help him be a trusted advisor to Willie. It will also complement the attributes that Luke brings as an assistant coach, and we believe they will work extremely well together alongside the rest of our football staff."
Chammas said Seibold had recently visited Papua New Guinea and was enthusiastic about the opportunity to be part of the country's first NRL team.
"Having just spent time in PNG recently, Anthony is tremendously excited about the opportunity that lies ahead for the Chiefs and Papua New Guinea as a country, and his appointment is another great addition for our club.
"We're looking forward to welcoming him and his family to our Chiefs family in November 2027 as we continue to build strong foundations for our first NRL season."
The appointment marks another major milestone for the PNG Chiefs as the club continues assembling its football operations in preparation for its long-awaited entry into the NRL in 2028.
