The Canberra Raiders have bolstered their coaching staff for the 2026 season by bringing in notable figures from the rugby scene, including former Wallabies star Matt Giteau and ex-Cronulla captain Dale Finucane. Both will contribute as part-time pathways coaches, focusing on youth development and training within the Raiders Academy.
Matt Giteau, who earned over 100 caps for the Australian national rugby team, has strong ties to the Raiders, with his father, Ron Giteau, having played 78 matches for the team during his 226-game career. At 43, Giteau, who grew up in Canberra and primarily represented the ACT Brumbies in Super Rugby, retired last year after a stint in Major League Rugby in the United States.
In their new roles, Giteau and Finucane will support the Harold Matthews and SG Ball Cup programs, enhancing both attack and defense coaching strategies. Giteau expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to join the Raiders, highlighting the legacy of his family within the club.
“To be involved with the Raiders is very special,” Giteau stated on the club’s website. “It’s only a small and limited capacity, but I’m honoured to be here especially given the history of my father and brother being involved as well. I’ll be more attack focused—catch and pass, ball handling, decision making and skills-specific training. It’s also great to connect with guys like Dale and Matt and work with them.”
Finucane, a dual premiership winner and representative of New South Wales in State of Origin, shared his enthusiasm for stepping into a coaching role with the Raiders. He noted the proximity to Canberra as a significant factor in his decision to join the coaching team.
“Living relatively close to Canberra, it was a really good fit for me,” he said. “I’ll be specialising in more defensive wrestle specific training. I particularly enjoy working with this age group of 16-20 year olds where everyone is wanting to get better and aspiring to play NRL. To be able to impact those guys and see their progression is really exciting.”
Both Giteau and Finucane aim to enhance the skills and experiences of young players, fostering a culture of growth and ambition within the Raiders Academy. Their combined expertise promises to significantly influence the development of aspiring rugby talents in Canberra and beyond.
