Steve McNamara signs new deal at Catalans
Steve McNamara has been Catalans Dragons head coach since 2018
Catalans coach Steve McNamara has signed a new two-year contract extension with the club.
McNamara, 50, arrived at the club in 2017 and led them to a historic Challenge Cup triumph in 2018 and last season’s Super League Grand Final.
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He said: “I am extremely happy at the Dragons Catalans and delighted to extend my deal.
“From the day I arrived the support and trust I have received from our owner Bernard Guasch and his fellow directors has been incredible.
“I am also privileged to work alongside an outstanding group of players and staff.
“Everyone associated with our club has contributed to making improvements and we will continue to do so.”
The former Bradford coach was named Coach of the Year in 2021, having also led the Dragons to a maiden League Leaders’ shield.
Catalans chairman Bernard Guasch said: “I’m delighted that Steve McNamara extends his contract with the club. Offering him a new contract was a natural choice.
“Since his arrival, he has been part of a process of structuring the whole organization on the long term. I appreciate his vision and his determination.
“He has been rewarded with collective and individual trophies and we are very happy that he is staying at the Dragons.
“I am sure he will continue to develop the team and the club in the seasons to come.”
Steve McNamara background
Previously assistant at the New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, McNamara moved to France mid-way through the 2017 campaign.
He and Catalans survived relegation in that season, defeating Leigh in the Million Pound Game.
They turned things around enough to reach Wembley in 2018, beating Warrington 20-14.
That was his first trophy as a domestic coach since leading Bradford to Academy Grand Final success in 2004.
At international level, he led England to a series win over New Zealand in 2015.
For the last few seasons of his role with England, he was also assistant coach at Sydney Roosters.
McNamara made a name for himself as a player at Hull FC, and also featured for Bradford, Wakefield and Huddersfield in the early years of Super League.
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