Kristian Woolf tipped to be a successful NRL head coach in the future

Former NRL star turned pundit Jamie Soward believes St Helens boss Kristian Woolf will be a successful head coach in the NRL in the near future. 

Woolf, 46, enjoyed instant success with St Helens in Super League, and has won two Grand Finals and a Challenge Cup since his move in 2020.

He led St Helens to their third successive triumph in 2021, defeating Catalans Dragons 12-10 at Old Trafford.

The Australian had a brief spell as interim head coach at Newcastle Knights in the NRL in 2019. He made the move to St Helens shortly after.

Woolf was appointed Tonga’s head coach in 2014. He led the Pacific nation them to the semi-finals of the 2017 World Cup before being knocked out by England.

Soward believes Kristian Woolf will be a success in NRL

Former NRL star Soward has spoken about the respect Woolf has Down Under, especially in the Polynesian community.

Speaking on the latest Love Rugby League podcast, Soward said: “He’s going to be a (NRL) head coach.

“Kristian Woolf has got a lot of huge wraps over here from a lot of players with what he’s done for the Tongan team. 

“He’d definitely be in the shortlist if teams were looking to make a change. What he’s done not only for St Helens, but the Polynesian connection is such a huge responsibility to be able to handle.

“If the Tongan squad love him so much, and they do; that’s a huge wrap to him and his personable skills.

“He’s got a huge wrap over here not only from the players, but I’m a massive Kristian Woolf supporter.”

Back in July 2021, Woolf signed an extension with St Helens. It would see him remain with the club until the end of the 2022 campaign.

Woolf will lead Tonga in their quest to win their first-ever Rugby League World Cup this autumn, which takes place in England.

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