Bold opening: A fresh start, a surprising switch, and a renewed fire for coaching—Paul Wellens is back in the game in a way few expected.
Former St Helens head coach Paul Wellens has opened up about how his move to the North Queensland Cowboys happened as he gear up for a fresh season in a new country and role.
Wellens spent three years guiding the Saints before the club parted ways with him at the end of the 2025 season. That decision ended his long-standing association with the Merseyside club, where he had logged nearly 500 appearances as a player before retiring in 2015.
Yet, just a month after his exit from the Brewdog Stadium, it was announced that he had joined the Cowboys in the NRL as an assistant coach. The announcement surprised many, and Wellens himself admits he didn’t anticipate the career move. Nevertheless, the 46-year-old says the relocation to Townsville has given him a genuine new lease on life.
“It’s a different environment from what I’ve known, but it’s a wonderful opportunity that presented itself in North Queensland, and I’ve settled in really well,” Wellens told Sky Sports. “The staff, the players, everyone at the club has been incredibly welcoming, and I’m genuinely excited by what lies ahead.”
“I didn’t see this move coming, to be honest. My time at St Helens had run its course, and after a few conversations with Todd [Payten] and discussions with CEO Michael Luck about the possibility of moving to Australia, the choice became clearer.”
“Of course, moving with a young family requires careful thought. But after weighing everything, we felt that in five years’ time we’d regret not taking this opportunity, so I’m grateful for the chance and eager for what the future holds.”
“When my circumstances changed at St Helens, I started thinking about what came next, and this opportunity appeared. I didn’t want to stay out of the game or coaching for too long. I’m refreshed after a brief break, and this new challenge has truly reignited my passion.”
“I won’t pretend it hasn’t been tough at times over the past few years, but the change in situation—while disappointing in the moment—could prove beneficial in the long run.”
Wellens shared these reflections during a trip to Las Vegas, as the Cowboys prepare to begin their NRL season at Allegiant Stadium in the early hours of Sunday. Todd Payten’s squad have been training against Hull KR in Nevada and will watch Hull KR’s clash with Leeds Rhinos before taking on the Newcastle Knights.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for our club to show what we’re about, and the same goes for the other five teams taking part,” Wellens added. “Rugby league offers rare experiences like this, and we’re grateful for them. The weekend will ultimately be defined by wins and losses, and that’s where our focus lies.”
Controversial note for consideration: When a long-tenured coach changes leagues, debates often emerge about the transfer’s long-term impact on both clubs, player development, and the coach’s adaptability in a different rugby culture. Do you think Wellens’ international move will accelerate his coaching growth or simply shift the spotlight away from St Helens’ immediate future?
