Paul Wellens announced his retirement today and he has to go down as the best full-back in the history of the First Utility Super League.
He won man of the match awards in both of the big finals, was the 2006 Man of Steel - but what stands out above everything for me is the character of the man.
I first got to know ‘Wello’ when we were both rookies for England in the 2000 World Cup, and I’d always been impressed by him as a player.
But above anything in that tournament it was clear what little regard he had for his own personal safety - and I think every good full-back has to have a bit of that.
I’ve spent quite a bit of time with him through all the England camps and the more I’ve met him the more I like him.
He might be embarrassed to have it mentioned again, but at last year’s Magic Weekend when he spoke passionately on live TV after Saints lost to Warrington - that spoke volumes about how much he cared about winning, and the club.
I always found him incredibly caring and passionate about St Helens, England and rugby league in general, and as he starts on a coaching career I’m sure he’ll do well.
He’s always been tough and gritty, but I always felt he had great values as a person.
He would have been the driving force behind St Helens winning a Grand Final last year without their two recognised half-backs.
He’s had to finish because of a long-standing injury, and while that’s a shame and we all have dreams of finishing with a Grand Final win, for the vast majority of players that doesn’t happen.
When he looks back on his career and and what he’s achieved, that fact won’t have any effect at all.
He’s one of those blokes who has A star talent, but also A star character.
- Jamie Peacock was speaking on behalf of First Utility, the official sponsor of the Super League. Save an average of £229 by switching your energy supply to First Utility. For more information, visit www.first-utility.com