PNG Chiefs appoint Eels legend as assistant coach

The PNG Chiefs have strengthened their off-field staff, having confirmed the appointment of Luke Burt as an assistant coach.

The former Eels back joins Willie Peters as part of his coaching staff ahead of their inaugural season in 2028.

Burt has plenty of coaching experience within the NRL, having been an assistant coach with his former club and the Gold Coast Titans, where he was an interim head coach alongside Craig Hodges in 2019 after the sacking of Garth Brennan.

He’s also had plenty of success as a head coach, having taken Parramatta to the 2017 NYC Final whilst winning last year’s QRL with the Burleigh Bears.

In a club statement, the Chiefs' GM of Football Michael Chammas, was excited to have the former Eel join the coaching staff.

“He had an exceptional career as a player, but what excites us the most is what he has done as a coach," he said.

"He has shown he can develop players and build a winning culture through what he has done at the Burleigh Bears.”

"Luke and his partner Madelin visited PNG recently and absolutely loved their time in the country. They are excited about the opportunity to build something special with the Chiefs alongside our head coach, Willie Peters."

Burt will join from November next year.