Wigan Warriors contract news: Matt Peet explains the ‘outstanding’ qualities that inspired new deal for off-contract prop
Wigan Warriors have announced the retention of prop Mike Cooper on a one-year deal for the 2024 campaign.
The England international is currently undergoing rehabilitation following a serious knee injury in their Good Friday win over St Helens this season.
Cooper joined the Warriors midway through last season from his hometown club Warrington, making 15 appearances for Wigan to date.
On his new deal, Cooper said: “I’m over the moon to extend my stay for a further year at Wigan.
“From the moment I signed, I’ve loved every single day here.
“It’s an environment where we all continue to learn and grow, and to get the opportunity to work with this group of players and staff at this stage of my career is something I feel very fortunate to do.”
Warriors coach Matt Peet said: “When Mike got injured, he was in excellent form and we know he has more quality performances to give in a Wigan shirt – his reaction to such a bad injury has been exemplary.
“On an individual level, he has applied himself to the highest standard and is in outstanding physical shape.
“His leadership and commitment to the group have been outstanding and he is affecting our culture positively on a day-to-day basis.
“I look forward to continuing to work with Mike.”
Cooper’s new deal was announced the day after head coach Matt Peet signed a new four-year deal with his hometown club, keeping him at the DW Stadium until at least the end of 2027.
Peet, 39, made an immediate impact during his first season in charge, lifting the Challenge Cup at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. It was the club’s first triumph in the prestigious competition in nine years.
He succeeded Adrian Lam at the DW Stadium, appointed in November 2021, having worked his way through the club’s ranks as a coach – alongside a brief spell in rugby union with Sale Sharks.
On his new contract, Peet said: “The club is in my DNA, and as a leader, my role here is very clear.
“Walking into our environment every day, and seeing the quality of staff and players we have here, we’re all committed to striving to be one of the best sporting organisations in the UK, and I’m incredibly proud to extend my time with the club.
“I would like to thank the fans for their support over the last two seasons. I hope they can see the direction we are travelling and share my optimism about what is possible.
“The board have shown great faith in me and I strive every day to repay that trust not just in a winning rugby team but one that represents Wigan with style and integrity.”
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