UPDATE: The Nyngan Tigers are generating excitement as they announce a new head coach and confirm four major signings for the upcoming 2026 Peter McDonald Premiership. Troy Evans, who led the reserve grade team to a championship victory this past season, will take the helm of the first-grade side, ushering in a wave of optimism.
Evans expressed his enthusiasm for leading a potentially formidable lineup, stating, “This could be one of the strongest lineups Nyngan has fielded in years.” His coaching style promises a disciplined approach while allowing players to leverage their natural strengths.
In a stunning move, the Tigers have secured the talents of reigning PMP player of the year Mitch Cleary and his brother Jaymn Cleary, both esteemed players from the Dubbo CYMS. Their signing is expected to elevate the team’s performance significantly. Mitch, known for his versatility, has excelled in multiple positions, while Jaymn has established himself as a critical component of the forward pack.
Additionally, Josh Merritt is returning to the Tigers, and he will be joined by young talent Cooper Black, who is making a much-anticipated return after completing his schooling in Sydney. Black’s experience within the Penrith Panthers system makes him a valuable asset. “He’ll be a massive asset to the side,” Evans said.
The Cleary brothers’ signing is set to turn heads across the competition. Mitch has already been working in the Nyngan area and Jaymn will soon follow suit. Their addition significantly enhances the quality of the Tigers’ forward pack, with a potential front-row pairing of Jaymn and former NRL player Vincent Leuluai looking particularly promising.
Evans emphasizes the importance of the Cleary brothers’ experience, saying, “What they’ve learned at Dubbo CYMS—how to win big games—will be invaluable for our team.” This infusion of talent comes as the Tigers continue to seek out additional signings, including outside backs and another forward.
The club is undergoing significant changes after the departure of former captain-coach James Tuitahi to Mudgee and the exit of Jamil Hopoate. There is also speculation that Aidan Bermingham may return to his hometown club in the Castlereagh League.
With Evans at the helm, the Tigers plan to implement a more structured style of play, promising increased scoring opportunities compared to previous seasons. “We’ll play with a gelled spine and there will be a lot more points to come,” he added.
The 2025 season marked Evans’ coaching debut, during which he led the reserve grade team to victory. As he transitions to a full coaching role for the upcoming season, he emphasizes the importance of teamwork and camaraderie. “If you’ve got good people, it makes a huge difference,” he said.
As the Nyngan Tigers prepare for the 2026 season, fans and players alike are eager to see how these developments will unfold on the field. With a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, the Tigers are poised to make a significant impact in the league. Stay tuned for more updates as the team finalizes its roster and strategies for the upcoming competition.
