#49 Ben Gardiner: The Evolution of Samoan RL, Perth Bears Plan and His Connection To The Mark Hughes Foundation

In this episode, Lachie sits down with Samoan head coach and newly–appointed Perth Bears Assistant coach Ben Gardiner for a deep dive into an unreal few months in his coaching journey.

We chat about Samoa’s recent Pacific Championships campaign and the lessons he’s taken from coaching at the international level. Ben opens up on the massive move from the Penrith Panthers system to becoming a key figure in the brand-new Perth Bears club, what attracted him to the opportunity, and how he plans to help build a winning culture from day one.

We also talk about why the Mark Hughes Foundation means so much to him, the personal connection behind his passion for fundraising and awareness, and how rugby league continues to unite around an incredible cause.

Plus, we wrap things up with some quickfire questions to get to know Ben beyond the footy field.

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