Sam Powell has called time on his playing career with the hooker already confirming his next steps as he joins the Warrington Wolves’ coaching staff.
Powell, 34, calls time on a career that has seen him represent two historic clubs in Super League with the hooker playing the majority of his matches for his hometown club Wigan Warriors.
After making 284 appearances in cherry and white, Powell made the switch to join Warrington ahead of the 2024 season, where he has played the last three years, making a total of 74 appearances in primrose and blue.
He could well add to those appearance numbers and even to his silverware tally, which currently stands at three Super League titles, three League Leaders Shield, and a World Club Challenge, as Warrington head into the play-offs.
A club statement from Warrington confirmed Powell’s decision, announcing: “Sam Powell will retire from rugby league at the end of the 2026 season, marking the conclusion of a magnificent 15-year playing career.
“The 34-year-old will now pass all his experience on to the next generation, as he joins Sam Burgess’ coaching staff ahead of the 2027 season.”
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Warrington Wolves appoint Sam Powell to Sam Burgess’ 2027 coaching staff
His appointment to the Warrington staff is a massive one given that the Wolves are losing current assistant Steve McNamara, who is to become the head coach of Hull FC.
Powell will swap being an off-field leader to being an off-field one, with the veteran hooker holding plenty of respect at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, and as the club have remarked themselves, he has helped drive standards during his three years there.
Speaking on the decision to retire, Powell said: “Reflecting on my career, I can hold my head high and say I’ve given it my all.
“I’m very proud of representing two top Super League clubs over my time playing.”
He added: “Firstly, to my hometown club, Wigan where I spent most of my career. Some very special moments for my family and I.”
“Then onto the Wire, where I’ve met some top people and really enjoyed being a part of this club. My time here isn’t coming to an end just yet.
“Thank you to my wife, Ria, and my three beautiful girls. Thank you to all the players I’ve played with. Thank you to all the coaches that have had an impact on my playing career. It’s been a great journey.”
Sam Powell will retire from rugby league at the end of the 2026 season, marking the conclusion of a magnificent 15-year playing career 👏
The 34-year-old will now pass all his experience on to the next generation, as he joins Sam Burgess’ coaching staff ahead of the 2027 season… pic.twitter.com/fKX5wIeifH
— Warrington Wolves (@WarringtonRLFC) September 10, 2026
