Tallon Smith
Just three weeks after their Group 3 Grand Final triumph, the Old Bar Beach Pirates have signalled their intent to create a dynasty after announcing that former NRL Premiership winner Jamie Soward will join the club as co-coach in 2026.
Soward, who until this year was the coach of the Dragons NRLW team, will take the reins alongside Grand Final hero Brady Barwick, as the Pirates look to go back-to-back next season.
In a statement released on Monday morning, the Pirates announced their major signing to the rugby league world, along with some of his credentials at the top level of the game.
“Jamie Soward needs no introduction,” the statement read.
“A former NRL star with over 200 first-grade appearances, Jamie has worn some of rugby league’s most iconic jerseys including the St George Illawarra Dragons, where he played a pivotal role in their 2010 Premiership win.
“Jamie has also proudly represented the Indigenous All Stars and pulled on the sky blue for NSW.
“More recently, Jamie has made an enormous impact in the women’s game as former head coach of the NRLW St George Illawarra Dragons and currently on the international stage as Head Coach for the Fetu Samoa women’s international team.
“We are incredibly excited to have someone of Jamie’s experience and passion guiding our squad again in 2026.”
Meanwhile, the Pirates also spoke highly of Barwick, who was awarded man of the match honours in the club’s premiership win over the Port Macquarie Sharks last month.
“Since arriving from the Central Coast this year, Brady Barwick has been a driving force in our club’s culture and performance both on and off the field.
“A leader through and through, Brady capped off a stellar 2025 season with a Grand Final to remember earning Player of the match honours in a performance that will go down in Pirates history.
“Together, Jamie and Brady bring the perfect blend of elite experience, leadership, and work ethic.
“We can’t wait to see what this dynamic coaching duo will bring to the 2026 campaign.
“The future is bright at Old Bar!”
Battlers For Bush Footy 