Watch FIFA World Cup 2026™

LIVE, FREE and EXCLUSIVE starting June 12 2026

Matterson to coach US at World Cup

Terry Matterson has taken over from Brian Smith as coach of the US Tomahawks for the rugby league World Cup.

North Queensland assistant coach Terry Matterson will be in charge of the United States' rugby league World Cup campaign.

The 46-year-old Australian, who is a premiership winner with the Brisbane Broncos, has stepped into the breach following the decision of Brian Smith to step down from the role due to a pressing family engagement.

Matterson, a former captain of London Broncos who was in charge of Castleford for six seasons between 2006 and 2011, is the Tomahawks' third head coach in two months after Matthew Elliott stepped down in August to concentrate on his duties with New Zealand Warriors.

"This is a really good opportunity and I know how good the experience was for Matt Elliott," said Matterson, who was assistant coach to Brian McClennan for the Exiles' win over England in the inaugural international origin match in 2011.

"This will be a fantastic chance for myself and the players in helping to spread the gospel of rugby league and perhaps even shock a few people.

News that makes sense

Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

"I'm thrilled to accept the job."

The Tomahawks are due to play a warm-up match against France in Toulouse on October 18, before opening their first World Cup campaign against Cook Islands on October 30. They also play group matches against Wales and Scotland.


2 min read

Published

Updated

Source: AAP


Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News straight to your inbox

Sign up now for daily news from Australia and around the world. You can also subscribe to Insight's weekly newsletter for in-depth features and first-person stories.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS News

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service

Stream now

Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world