FORMER St Helens head coach Paul Wellens has admitted he is “loving life” at North Queensland Cowboys in his first interview with his new club.
The 45-year-old, prior to his departure in October after three seasons in charge, had been at Saints his entire playing and coaching career, registering almost 500 appearances on the grass.
Wellens won the 2023 World Club Challenge in his first game in charge, but failed to add any further silverware to the cabinet.
Last month he took on the job as assistant coach of the Cowboys in the NRL – and it’s fair to say that he is enjoying every minute so far.
“Everybody at the club, players and staff, have been really welcoming,” Wellens said.
“I’m loving life over here, it’s been a big change for me, but it’s one I’m really excited about.
“I’ve been at one club in St Helens all my life, such a long, long time. When the opportunity came up to do something different, that really excited me.
“I’ve always kept a close eye on the NRL as a competition and watching that style of rugby. It’s great to finally be a part of it.
“I’ve really enjoyed working with the staff (and) how detailed they are around their planning to make sure we cater the sessions in the right way but get the quality out of the sessions that we need to.
“It’s been very positive right across the board.”