Oliver Gildart reveals why he left Super League for the NRL and which coach is a ‘maniac’

Oliver Gildart was snapped up as one of Wests Tigers’ major signings in the off-season ahead of the 2022 NRL season. 

After playing all of his rugby league for Wigan Warriors in Super League, the pull of moving to the NRL and Australia was too much to ignore.

And, he’s revealed just why he left Super League for the pastures Down Under.

“It’s a dream come true for me,” Gildart told Wests Tigers TV.

“I’ve wanted to come over here from being a little kid – not many people get to come over here especially being from England and I’ve got the opportunity now and I’m going to take it.”

Before he moved to Wests, Gildart asked Wigan players who had worked under Michael Maguire – the head coach that steered the Warriors to Grand Final and Challenge Cup Final glory – what it was like.

“Obviously a lot of lads who I played with at Wigan said he was a bit of a maniac before I came out here!

“So I didn’t know what to expect but he’s been brilliant, personally off the field as well so I’m looking forward to being coached by him.”

The former Wigan centre will also not be alone in Australia.

“I’ve got my partner over here and my brother has just got his visa accepted as well, he’s an electrician.”