Matt Peet reveals his idea on what creates success in Rugby League

In his first year as a Super League coach, Matt Peet has earned Wigan a second-placed finish in the Betfred Super League, got them into the semi-finals of the competition as well as winning the Challenge Cup at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

No one is denying there has been hiccups along the way, but as far as first seasons go, I don’t think you can get much better.

If you throw in the complete turnaround with the fan base and community as well as the general togetherness of the squad which has been changed astronomically, from an outside point of view, the job Peet has done at the D.W. Stadium becomes more and more remarkable the more analysis it receives.

The Wiganer spoke a lot ahead of the season about changing the culture of the club, and after a few potentially disruptive bodies left the club and some devoted, willing and hungry youngsters joined the ranks, things have gone on an upward trajectory for the Warriors.

Speaking in his post-match press conference ahead of their highly anticipated Semi-Final clash with Leeds Rhinos on Friday evening, the head coach was asked about what makes success within a Rugby League club.

Peet said:

“Your Academy. It’s not a secret, if you look at the likes of Penrith, St Helens, Melbourne Storm, Leeds. Any organisation that has sustained success develops from within, players and staff.”

Having been promoted from within himself, Peet is obviously a strong believer in the philosophy of developing your own works stronger than just trying to purchase the best talent and expecting them to gel together instantly. This season has seen a number of young players work their way into the team after being with the Warriors since young lads.

Harry Smith is an example of a player who has worked his way up the ranks with the Cherry and Whites and is now playing a pivotal role in the Warriors side, playing an astounding role in Wigan’s Challenge Cup final success.

And with players like that mixed with a bit of quality being signed on in the likes of Jai Field and Cade Cust of more recent times, there appears that the Warriors have struck a perfect balance and one that may well lead to even more success in 2022.

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