Coyd pays tribute to World Cup winner Roberts

England Wheelchair Head Coach Tom Coyd MBE has paid tribute to Declan Roberts, who has become the second member of the 2022 World Cup winning squad to announce his retirement.

Roberts follows James Simpson MBE, who confirmed his retirement in 2023 – and like Simpson, who is now the Head Coach of Leeds Rhinos, Roberts will also move into coaching, with Wigan Warriors.

Tom Coyd said:

“I congratulate Declan on an impressive career with several clubs, latterly Wigan Warriors as they became the latest Betfred Super League club to embrace Wheelchair Rugby League.

“Dec was a talisman for Wigan as they beat Leeds to win the Betfred Wheelchair Super League Grand Final in 2023.

“I wish him all the best in the next chapter of his Rugby League story.”

Roberts was inspired to take up Wheelchair Rugby League by his father, Phil – one of England’s pioneers at the 2008 World Cup, and now the Ireland head coach.

He won a total of nine England caps, and made three appearances in the triumphant 2022 World Cup campaign, scoring three tries and six goals in the group win against Spain at the Copper Box Arena in London, and a try, a goal and a drop goal in the semi final win against Wales.

Roberts said:

“There are a number of reasons I have decided to stop playing, and although it was a difficult decision, I am certain that it’s the right one.

“I started playing Wheelchair Rugby League over 10 years ago and have made some lifelong friends and have had some unforgettable experiences, namely winning a Grand Final for my hometown team, representing my country and winning a World Cup.

“I do, however, believe the time is now right for me to transition into a coaching role. I already assist with coaching our reserves team and I am looking forward to expanding on this as I step up to assist with coaching our Wheelchair Super League team.

“We have a great group of players throughout our entire squad, and I’m excited to continue to work alongside them in a different capacity.”

Details of the expanded Betfred Wheelchair Super League for 2025 will be announced soon.