Veteran Wigan Warriors Prop Mike Cooper Reflects on Rekindling his Rugby League Passion
Wigan Warriors veteran prop Mike Cooper has opened up about his uncertain future, admitting he is yet to decide whether he will continue playing beyond the 2023 season. The 35-year-old, who is highly likely to depart the DW Stadium at the end of the current campaign, credits current Warriors head coach Matt Peet for reigniting his love for the sport.
Cooper, who turns 36 later this year, spent nearly a year on the sidelines due to a serious knee injury early in the 2023 season, just months after joining Wigan. Despite the setback, the experienced forward believes he still has plenty to offer, though he remains undecided about his next move.
“We’ll just see what happens, but I’m not stressing about it: what will be, will be,” Cooper told Love Rugby League. “I missed a full year with injury so I’ll see how I wake up from one morning to the next!”
As Cooper prepares to face his former club Warrington Wolves this weekend, he is full of praise for Peet, who signed him and gave him the opportunity to feature in the prestigious World Club Challenge. The prop acknowledges the difficulties he faced during his time at the Halliwell Jones Stadium and credits Peet for reigniting his passion for the game.
“Matty has been great,” Cooper said. “To give me the opportunity to play in the World Club Challenge, even sign me in the first place, it’s been amazing. To win some more silverware would be a dream come true. The club has been amazing with me, I have thoroughly loved my time here.”
With Wigan set to face Warrington in the upcoming Challenge Cup final at Wembley, Cooper is determined to prove his worth and secure a place in Peet’s matchday 17. He acknowledges the significance of the occasion but remains focused on the task at hand in Super League.
“To win a big game like we did in the semi and then back it up the week after (against Salford).. if we thought we’d been in this position during pre-season we’d have certainly taken it,” Cooper said. “We’re professional but you’d be lying to say Wembley’s not in the back of your mind. But we’re fully focussed on Super League for now.”
As Cooper contemplates his future, the veteran prop’s emphasis on the positive impact of Peet and the Wigan Warriors organization highlights the importance of nurturing player relationships and maintaining a supportive environment in rugby league.
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