St George Illawarra have confirmed that Mark ‘Piggy’ Riddell will step into a newly created position as the Dragons’ NRLW and Pathways Recruitment Lead.
The club favourite, who played 92 matches in the Red V between 2001 and 2004, will now spearhead recruitment and retention across the women’s squad and the broader female pathways system.
Riddell has already been a familiar face at the club this year, first assisting Shaun Timmins with the SG Ball squad before linking up with Nathan Cross’ NRLW coaching staff as an assistant in April. His new appointment formalises his growing influence in the women’s game and places him at the heart of the Dragons’ future planning.
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‘An important step’ for the Dragons’ vision
Female Football Manager Sammy Bremner said the move underlines the club’s ambition to build a sustainable and successful women’s programme. “The club felt that it was important to have someone with Piggy’s experience and expertise to take on this role in a formal capacity,” Bremner said.
“He’s been involved with women’s rugby league for a long time and has the skillset to really succeed this role. He’s a highly respected figure, and people enjoy working with him. We felt that this was an important step as we continue to carry out our vision of building a sustainable and winning women’s program at the Dragons and are excited for what is to come.”
Riddell’s brief will centre on creating alignment across the Dragons’ pathways while continuing to support player development. His appointment signals the club’s intent to strengthen its foundations as the NRLW continues to expand.