BREAKING NEWS: Excitements Hits GIO Stadium Canberra stadium as Former Canberra Raiders National Rugby League (NRL) legend Player Mal Meninga Returns to his former team as a senior coaching….see more

The Canberra Raiders community is buzzing with emotion and excitement after a monumental announcement today — NRL legend and formerThe Canberra Raiders community is buzzing with emotion and excitement after a monumental announcement today — NRL legend and former Raiders great, Mal Meninga, is officially returning to his former club as a Senior Coaching Advisor ahead of the 2025 National Rugby League season.

The news broke early this morning, sending waves of joy through the Green Machine faithful, as fans, players, and staff celebrated the return of one of the most iconic figures in the club’s rich history.

“Canberra Will Always Be Home”

At an emotional press conference held at GIO Stadium Canberra, Meninga expressed his deep connection to the Raiders and his excitement about returning to help guide the next generation of players.

“Canberra will always be home for me,” Meninga said. “This club made me who I am — it’s where I grew as a player, a leader, and a person. I’m thrilled to be back, to mentor these young men, and to give back to the club that’s given me so much.”

A True Legend Returns

Mal Meninga’s return is more than symbolic — it’s historic. The former centre captained the Raiders to three premierships (1989, 1990, 1994) and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in both the club’s and the NRL’s history. His leadership, physicality, and rugby intellect helped define Canberra’s golden era, making the Raiders one of the most dominant teams of the 1990s.

In his new role, Meninga will work closely with head coach Ricky Stuart, another Raiders legend, focusing on leadership development, player culture, and strategic guidance for the coaching staff.

Ricky Stuart: “A Massive Moment for Our Club”

Raiders head coach Ricky Stuart, who once played alongside Meninga, couldn’t hide his enthusiasm when speaking about the reunion.

“Having Mal back at the Raiders is massive,” Stuart said. “He’s not just a legend — he’s family. His presence, wisdom, and experience will lift everyone in this organization. This is a proud day for the Raiders.”

Fans Erupt in Celebration

As the announcement spread, GIO Stadium and the wider Canberra community were filled with celebration. Fans flooded social media with messages of joy and nostalgia, sharing old photos and memories of Meninga’s playing days in the green and gold.

The hashtags #MalIsBack and #RaidersFamily quickly began trending across platforms, with supporters calling this move “the best news in years.”

One lifelong fan wrote:

“Mal Meninga back in Canberra? This is what dreams are made of. The heart of the Raiders has returned!”

Another added:

“We’re going back to the glory days — Mal and Ricky together again. What a time to be a Raiders fan!”

A Mentor for the Next Generation

According to club officials, Meninga’s role will focus heavily on mentoring players, especially rising stars like Xavier Savage, Corey Harawira-Naera, and Hudson Young — players expected to shape the Raiders’ future.

Club CEO Don Furner Jr. said Meninga’s experience will have an immediate impact:

“Mal’s leadership qualities are second to none. He knows what success looks like and how to build it. His presence alone will inspire our players to aim higher.”

The Spirit of Canberra Rekindled

Meninga’s return represents more than a strategic hire — it’s a spiritual homecoming for a club built on passion, resilience, and community. His partnership with Ricky Stuart rekindles the magic of the Raiders’ golden years, fueling hopes of another championship era in Canberra.

“The jersey still means everything to me,” Meninga said with a smile. “It’s time to help this new generation write their own history.”

A Glorious Reunion for the Green Machine

As the crowd at GIO Stadium erupted into cheers during the announcement, it was clear this was more than a coaching move — it was a moment of unity and nostalgia for an entire fanbase.

Mal Meninga is back where he belongs — at home with the Raiders. 💚💛🏉
The legend’s return signals one thing loud and clear: the Green Machine is ready to rise again.