Ex-Wigan Warriors man Matty Smith opens up on return to former club

Matty Smith will join back up with St Helens to take over as the head coach of the Saints Women’s team in 2023. The move sees Derek Hardman remain with the club and become our new Reserves head coach, with Ian Talbot focusing solely on his role as first-team assistant coach.

Smith enjoyed two spells in the Red V coming through the Saints Academy, before making his debut for the Club in 2006. He also enjoyed successful spells with the Salford Red Devils, Wigan Warriors, Catalans Dragons and Widnes Vikings, winning the Challenge Cup, and Super League as well as the Lance Todd trophy.

This will be Smith’s first venture into coaching following his retirement from playing at the end of last season, as he looks to progress in the sport now his playing career has come to an end.

Matty will be assisted in this role by former England Women’s head coach and Saints Women’s head of rugby, Craig Richards, as well as Derek Hardman, as he looks to complete his coaching qualifications alongside this role.

Following this, Smith has spoken on the club’s Twitter page about what it means to return:

“Obviously great yeah, firstly to get the opportunity to work with these girls. It is a great opportunity for me, one I am excited about.

“But also to be back at the club, I am a St Helens lad, to have this crest on my chest again, I am looking forward to a big pre-season.”