Ex-NRL, Super League Star Takes Dual Coaching Role in Australia for 2026
Corey Thompson, a former player in both the NRL and Super League, has been appointed to coach the Burleigh Bears. He will lead both the BMD Premiership and the Harvey Norman under-19s women’s teams starting in the 2026 season.
Corey Thompson’s Background
At just 35 years old, Thompson hung up his boots after the 2023 season, during which he played for the Brisbane Tigers in the Queensland Cup. Over his career, he made over 170 first-grade appearances, primarily as a winger but also playing full-back on occasion.
Career Highlights
- Two-year stint with Widnes Vikings from 2016 to 2017.
- Scored 41 tries and nine goals in 57 games during his time in the Super League.
- Played for the Canterbury Bulldogs, Wests Tigers, and Gold Coast Titans in the NRL.
Coaching Role
Thompson’s appointment was confirmed by the Burleigh Bears via social media. He will coach the senior women’s team in the BMD Premiership, which is the premier level of women’s rugby league in Queensland, as well as the under-19s team in the Harvey Norman competition.
Recent Performance
- In 2025, the senior women’s team lost 22-6 in the Grand Final to Thompson’s former team, the Brisbane Tigers.
- The Bears finished third in the regular season that year.
- The under-19s team finished fifth on the ladder last season.
With his experience and background, Thompson aims to help elevate the Burleigh Bears as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 season. His previous work in Football Operations and Integration with the Gold Coast Titans may also aid his efforts in this new dual coaching role.
