WHEN Kristian Woolf arrived in St Helens three years ago to become Saints coach he had big boots to fill succeeding the popular Justin Holbrook who signed off after a Grand Final victory.
However, the Queenslander managed to add a bit of grit and a harder edge which has seen Saints go on to achieve great success over the past three trophy-laden years.
Woolf became the first coach to win three successive Super League titles, with Grand Final victories over Wigan, Catalans and Leeds respectively since 2020.
He also guided Saints to a first Challenge Cup success at Wembley in 13 years in 2021, and helped the team to pick up the League Leaders’ Shields this year despite facing much adversity and disruption due to injuries to several key players.
READ > Saints CEO excited at new training ground prospects
Woolf, who coached Tonga in this autumn’s World Cup, had jetted back to Australia ahead of last Friday’s awards night where he will join new NRL club The Dolphins in Brisbane.
However, he left behind a message via video for the people of St Helens, which was played at the ceremony after he was announced as the Pride of St Helens winner for 2022.
“What I would like to say is a really big thank you, it’s a real privilege to be able to receive this award and that honour is certainly not lost on me,” the Australian said.
“I’ve been here for three years and I’ve loved every minute of living in St Helens and being part of the St Helens community. I’ve loved being a part of the club and everything we’ve been able to achieve.”
Woolf emphasised how welcome he and his family have been made in the town since their arrival.
“We’ve all felt so welcome from day one and we are leaving with a very heavy heart certainly feeling like we’re leaving home and that’s the best compliment I can give of you guys as a town,” he added.
“It’s a special place in my heart and it’s certainly a place I’ll always remember.
“Thank you for the award but more so, thank you for how you’ve made me and my family feel in our time here.”
Singer Jacqui Abbott and St Helens Mind were highly commended in this category.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here