The brutal pre-season reality check and ‘eye-opening’ act that transformed Warriors
The New Zealand Warriors NRL team underwent a significant cultural and performance transformation under coach Andrew Webster. By implementing a strict, merit-based selection process, Webster successfully reshaped the team's mentality and competitive standing.
Why it matters
It illustrates how leadership changes and cultural shifts can revitalize professional sports organizations.
NRL NRL-PREMIERSHIP The brutal pre-season reality check and ‘eye-opening’ act that transformed Warriors "Could be a grand final preview" | 04:16 Andrew Jackson from Fox Sports August 7th, 2026 10:28 am Tanner Stowers-Smith still remembers his first pre-season under Andrew Webster.
It was the end of 2022. A year that included an emotional return to what once was, and yet felt like the start of something new.
The return of Shaun Johnson brought back memories of better times. Of flashy footwork and dazzling dummies.
And by the middle of the season, the Warriors were back home.
But their previous head coach, Nathan Brown, was no longer there and by the end of the year neither were Reece Walsh, Chanel Harris-Tavita, Eliesa Katoa, Euan Aikten and Jesse Arthars.
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