St Helens: Kristian Woolf to remain head coach into 2022 season

Kristian Woolf led St Helens to their seventh Super League crown in his first campaign in charge, while he has since overseen their first Challenge Cup triumph in 13 years with victory against Castleford at Wembley earlier in July

Image: St Helens head coach Kristian Woolf celebrates winning the Challenge Cup at Wembley

Head coach Kristian Woolf will remain with back-to-back Super League champions St Helens for the 2022 season.

The 46-year-old Tonga national coach succeeded Justin Holbrook ahead of the 2020 season on a two-year deal, with the club now exercising the option to extend into a third campaign.

Woolf led Saints to their seventh Super League title in his first season in charge, while he has since overseen their first Challenge Cup triumph in 13 years with victory against Castleford at Wembley earlier in July.

"I'm delighted to have the opportunity to stay on for another year at this great club," said Woolf, who was assistant coach of Newcastle Knights before his move to Super League.

"I love working with the group and they are an exceptional group of men. They work hard and their desire to win is great to be a part of.

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"The club and in particular (chairman) Eamonn (McManus) and Rushy (chief executive Mike Rush) have been terrific with me and my family since I arrived.

"They have made every effort in difficult circumstances to ensure my family are happy here and that has made my decision to stay an easy one.

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"Thank you also to the wonderful St Helens fans who again have made us feel so welcome and part of the St Helens community. When you are a long way from home, those things are so important.

"I am now looking forward to the future here at St Helens."

St Helens sit second in the Super League table this season, behind leaders Catalans Dragons, as the club target a third consecutive Grand Final crown.

Chairman McManus added: "It's terrific news that Kristian is staying with us at least until the end of 2022.

"It's no coincidence that his arrival at the club 18 months ago has already delivered us a Grand Final victory over Wigan and our first Challenge Cup victory in 13 years.

"He's undoubtedly improved mentality, as well as outcome, and the players have reacted really well to his leadership, management and coaching skills.

"There's no doubt that Saints will continue to be more than a force to be reckoned with under his direction going forward."

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