Matt Peet has never hidden his belief in the value of Wigan Warriors’ academy, and the promotion of two homegrown talents into the first-team setup is further proof that the club’s pathway remains one of the strongest in rugby league. Speaking after their elevation, the Wigan head coach offered a detailed insight into what impressed him most about the young duo and why he feels the timing is right for them to take the next step.
For Peet, the decision was not driven by short-term necessity, but by long-term planning and trust in the systems Wigan have built. He stressed that both players have earned their opportunity through consistency rather than moments of flair alone. “They’ve been on our radar for a while,” Peet explained. “It’s not just about how they perform on matchday, but how they turn up every day, how they train, and how they respond when things don’t go their way.”
That mentality is something Peet values highly, particularly in young players stepping into an environment filled with experience and expectation. He highlighted their professionalism and willingness to learn, traits that have stood out during training sessions with the senior squad. According to the Wigan boss, neither player has been overawed by the step up, instead embracing the challenge with maturity beyond their years.
Peet also pointed to the importance of grounding young talent in Wigan’s identity before exposing them to first-team pressures. Having come through the club’s youth system, both players already understand what it means to represent the cherry and white. “They know the standards here,” Peet said. “They know the history, they know what this badge represents, and that counts for a lot when you’re assessing whether someone is ready.”
The head coach was careful to temper expectations, however, making it clear that promotion does not guarantee immediate or sustained game time. Development, in Peet’s view, is rarely linear. He emphasised the need for patience, both from supporters and from the players themselves. “There will be ups and downs,” he admitted. “What matters is how they handle those moments and whether they stay committed to getting better.”
One of Peet’s strengths since taking charge has been his ability to blend youth with experience, and he believes the current senior group provides the ideal environment for emerging players to thrive. Senior figures within the squad have already taken on mentoring roles, helping the duo adjust to the physical and mental demands of Super League rugby.
Beyond individual progress, Peet framed the promotions as a reflection of Wigan’s broader philosophy. The club’s commitment to developing local talent remains central to its identity, not only as a source of pride but as a sustainable model for success. “When young players see a clear pathway, it motivates everyone in the system,” Peet noted. “It tells them that if they work hard enough, there’s a real opportunity waiting.”
As Wigan look ahead to the challenges of the new season, the inclusion of two homegrown prospects serves as a reminder that the future is being built alongside the present. Under Peet’s guidance, the message is clear: talent will be rewarded, but character, patience, and consistency will ultimately determine who stays at the top.
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