Sean O’Loughlin has signed a one-year contract extension with Betfred Super League Champions, Wigan Warriors.
The 36-year old, who captained Wigan to the Betfred Super League title at Old Trafford earlier this month (October) in his 16th season with his hometown club, has signed a new-deal to remain at the DW Stadium with a view to become part of the Warriors coaching staff when he retires from the game.
As one of Wigan’s most successful captains, O’Loughlin has skippered Wigan to four Super League titles, two Challenge Cups and a World Club Challenge title since being made captain in 2006. One of rugby league’s most respected and revered figures, O’Loughlin has also captained England and represented Lancashire in a glittering playing-career, with the loose-forward being named in the Super League dream team on seven occasions. O’Loughlin will continue to assist the Academy as a coach alongside his playing commitments, working alongside new Head of Youth and former Wigan teammate, Mick Cassidy.
Reacting to signing his latest deal, O’Loughlin said: “I came to the decision that I’d like to play on and I’m very grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity to do so. It is no secret that I’ve always wanted to play for this club, so I’m delighted to be able to extend my career here next season. Coaching is a route I have always wanted to go down so I’m also happy to have the opportunity to do so after I’ve retired. As a club we are starting a new chapter with Adrian (Lam) and I’m looking forward to helping the team defend our Super League title in 2019.”
Wigan Warriors Executive Director, Kris Radlinski: “Sean O’Loughlin is a modern day great in our sport and is justifiably seen as a legend of Wigan Warriors. His influence, professionalism and knowledge are crucial attributes that we were desperate to keep at the club, so we are delighted that despite some handsome offers from big teams in Super League, Sean has put pen to paper to see out his career at the club in which he has represented with such distinction.
“The headline news will be Sean’s one-year deal to prolong his playing career, but we are equally excited to see Sean carve out a coaching career with the Warriors as we help one of our greats prepare for life after rugby.
“Sean has made an enormous contribution in his 16-years at Wigan Warriors. On the field, he has been unbelievably consistent in setting a superb example to our younger players, constantly giving everything he has. Off the field, he is one of the most selfless people you’ll ever meet, always putting the team first – his integrity and leadership and have always shone through in his time here. Qualities such as these have been extremely important in establishing our culture at Wigan Warriors and Sean is the embodiment of them, so it’s very exciting to have a man of his stature and integrity working with the next crop of younger players looking to make their way through the ranks at the club, both on and off the field.”
Radlinski added: “We have been very fortunate to have Sean and it’s brilliant news that he’ll remain at Wigan Warriors.”