Former Super League hooker Matty Wildie has handed Oldham a major boost by putting pen to paper on a new contract extension that incorporates a dual playing and coaching role for 2027.
The 35-year-old, who currently serves as club captain, has committed his future to the ambitious Championship outfit for another 12 months, with the option of a further year included in the deal.
After making his Super League breakthrough at hometown club Wakefield Trinity, Wildie made close to 30 appearances for Bradford Bulls, bringing a wealth of top-flight and second-tier experience to Sean Long’s squad.
Under the terms of his new extension, the veteran will combine his playing duties with an off-field role, taking up the mantle of transition coach to mentor Oldham’s rising talent alongside his ongoing responsibilities on the pitch.
‘Oldham is a fantastic club to be at’
Speaking on his decision to extend his stay at Boundary Park, Wildie expressed his delight at securing his future while taking the first formal step into his coaching journey.
“Oldham is a fantastic club to be at, and to get the deal done means a lot to me,” Wildie said.
“It means I can focus purely on playing now and helping the group push for the success we all want.”
Regarding his transition into the coaching setup, the hooker added: “I’m really excited about taking on the transition coach role,
“Working with the young lads coming through, helping them bridge the gap between reserve or youth rugby and the first team, is something I’m really passionate about,
“It’s a great opportunity for me to develop as a coach while still contributing on the pitch as a player.”
Super League Dream Team reaction, England selection debate, and are Wigan Warriors unstoppable? – Click here to watch the latest episode of the Serious About Rugby League Show
Since arriving from Featherstone Rovers, Wildie has been integral to the club’s trajectory. He picked up the Coaches’ Player of the Year award in his debut campaign before being handed the captain’s armband ahead of the 2026 season.
Managing director Mike Ford lauded Wildie’s leadership qualities and stressed that formalising his coaching duties was a natural evolution for both parties.
“Matty embodies everything we stand for at Oldham,” Ford stated.
“He leads by example week in, week out, and his knowledge of the game is invaluable,
Adding the transition coaching role to his playing contract is a natural progression,
“His experience will be huge in helping our younger players develop into full-time professionals.”
The captain is staying 👊
Matty Wildie has agreed a new deal which will also see him take up a coaching role.
Read all about it 👇
🗞️ https://t.co/iKP0YX4w36 pic.twitter.com/qbnL8GVptf
— Oldham RLFC (@Roughyeds) September 15, 2026
