St Helens legend Paul Wellens has expressed his desire to one day become a head coach.
Wellens, a one-club man throughout his playing career, has remained with the Saints in a coaching capacity since retiring from playing in 2015.
One of Kristian Woolf’s two assistants, the former Great Britain fullback insists he is content with his current role.
However, speaking to League Express, the 40-year-old admits he would one day to take charge of a team of his own.
“I’m really happy here,” Wellens said.
“I enjoy the role. I’ve done it for three or four years now. I’m learning more about it all the time, and it’s true when you hear the top coaches say you never stop learning.
“I’m trying to continue developing myself in numerous departments all the time.”
Naturally, Wellens would love one day to coach St Helens, though he is aware that he may have to step away from his boyhood club to fulfil his ambition.
“I’ve never made a secret of wanting to coach St Helens one day,” added Wellens.
“But by no means now; I’m happy supporting Kristian (Woolf).
“As a player, my intention was always to stay here as long as the club wanted me, and my thoughts are similar now, but I also understand the coaching environment is a bit more volatile and things can change quickly. There may be a time when I will have to take on a new challenge while being open-minded about it, because coaching is different from playing. But I’m very relaxed right now as I’m still learning.”
Wellens’ education is currently happening under Woolf, the Tonga head coach who took over at the Totally Wicked Stadium this year.
“Kristian has a great work ethic and we get on very well,” said Wellens.
“He’s very passionate about the town and the team doing well.
“He wants to be successful and that’s clear in what he does every day.”
