Shaun Wane excited for new challenge upon Wigan return

Shaun Wane says he is excited for a new challenge in a different role after returning to hometown club Wigan. 

The Warriors have appointed assistant Matt Peet as their new head coach, replacing Adrian Lam. Wane will combine his role as England head coach with that of leadership and management director at the Warriors.

Peet’s assistants will be former Warrington player and assistant coach Lee Briers as well as ex-Wigan skipper Sean O’Loughlin.

Shaun Wane looking forward for Wigan return

On his return to the DW Stadium, Wane said: “This role presents me with an exciting new challenge. My passion is developing people and culture and being able to do this at my hometown club is the perfect fit.

“I’m looking forward to working with Matt, Sean and Lee immensely. I’ve known Matt for years – he has great qualities. He is a coach that cares about his players and has an outstanding work ethic. I think he is the perfect fit for Wigan.”

READ: Wigan confirm their new coaching team

On Wane’s return, Wigan executive director Kris Radlinski said: “Having spoken to Shaun Wane on a number of occasions throughout the year, it was clear that he wanted to be involved again in club rugby.

“I spoke to our chairman Ian Lenagan and presented a vision of how I felt Shaun would fit back in.

“Shaun has got a vast skill set and knows how to get the best out of people. He will use his technical knowledge of the sport, his man management skills and his leadership qualities to boost all departments throughout the club. Along with Ian and myself, Shaun will plan, mentor, instil discipline and drive standards.”

Meanwhile, Wigan have confirmed that John Winder’s contract as assistant coach ends in 2021. He will take up a senior role with the club’s partner company Competence Development.

Winder helped the Warriors win two Super League Grand Finals (2016 & 2018), the World Club Challenge (2017) and the League Leaders’ Shield (2020).