Rugby league: Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney signs new three-year deal

The Warriors have re-signed coach Stephen Kearney to a new three-year deal, the club confirmed today.

Kearney, who is heading into his third season in charge after joining the Warriors ahead of the 2017 season, has signed a contract extension that will keep him at Mt Smart until the end of 2022.

The new deal leaves him in line to become one of the club's longest serving coaches in equaling former coach Ivan Cleary's six seasons at the helm (2006 – 2011).

Negotiations between both parties began midway through last season in which Kearney steered the Warriors to their first finals appearance since 2011.

"When I first came back to the club, I was honoured to be given the opportunity to help the club move forward and improve," Kearney said.

"I'm pleased to have my future sorted out with this new contract and to know I'll be with the club for a few more years.

"We made progress last season but, to be honest, the focus for me is always what's next for us and that's preparing for this week's trial against Wests Tigers in Whangarei."

Following last Friday night's solid 12-6 NRL trial win over Melbourne, his re-signing gives the club stability ahead of the season start and Saturday's second and final trial against Wests Tigers in Whangarei.

"Securing Stephen for another three years is a huge boost for us as we prepare to begin our 25th season in the competition," said Warriors CEO Cameron George.