Key Highlights
- St.Helens R.F.C. announces the signing of Jackson Hastings for the 2026 season.
- Hastings won the Steve Prescott Man of Steel Award in 2019 during his time with Wigan.
- The player returns to Super League after four seasons in the NRL with Newcastle Knights and Wests Tigers.
- Hastings expresses excitement about returning to England and joining St.Helens’ community.
Returning Home: Jackson Hastings Joins St.Helens R.F.C.
The St.Helens R.F.C. club is thrilled to welcome back Jackson Hastings for the 2026 season, signing the former Man of Steel Award winner on a one-year deal. The move marks a significant return for the 29-year-old, who has accumulated extensive experience across different leagues and clubs.
A Proven Record
With four seasons in the National Rugby League (NRL) with Newcastle Knights and Wests Tigers, Hastings brings a wealth of international experience to St.Helens. His time in Australia was complemented by his previous stint at Wigan and Salford in the UK, where he notably reached Grand Finals on both occasions.
One of his most memorable achievements came when he won the prestigious Steve Prescott Man of Steel Award in 2019 during his tenure with Wigan. This award is a testament to his outstanding contribution to the team and his ability to lead from the front, both on and off the field.
Motivated for Success
Speaking candidly about his return to St.Helens, Hastings emphasized his excitement: “I’m really excited! I’ve got a young family now, my partner’s English, and it’ll be great for my daughter to meet that side of the family and experience the English culture that’s in my blood, too. I’m just buzzing to get over, settle my family, and be part of the Saints family.”
Hastings believes his time away from the UK has made him a more rounded player: “Certainly on the life side of things, I’ve been through a lot – big lessons.
On the playing side of things, I think I’m coming back realising what I’m best at: organising, kicking well, getting the team around the park, and then taking chances when they come. I’m ready to put my best foot forward for this club.”
Looking Forward with Paul Rowley
The 2026 season promises to be an exciting one for St.Helens as they welcome back a player who has faced them in big matches, including Grand Finals. Jackson shares his excitement about joining the right side of history at such a great club: “I’ve been on the wrong side of Saints history a couple of times, so I’m looking forward to joining the right side at such a great club. Every time I played Saints, it was a brilliant game.
Everyone knows their role, is super fit, defensively intimidating, and always professional and well organised.”
St.Helens’ Head Coach Paul Rowley expressed his delight in bringing Hastings back: “I’m really pleased to welcome Jackson to the Saints,” said Rowley. “Having worked alongside him before, I know firsthand how much of a competitor he is. Like everybody at our Club, his standards and expectations are extremely high. I am very confident we have added a fantastic and highly motivated player to this great group of players.”
For supporters, Hastings looks forward to becoming an integral part of the local community: “I want to feel welcomed, and the best way I can earn that is by giving my all, on and off the field.
I pride myself on being active in the community, so I want to immerse myself in St Helens to be accepted for who I am through my actions and effort. The goal next year is to be successful and lift trophies.”
With a proven track record and renewed excitement, Jackson Hastings is set to play a pivotal role as St.Helens R.F.C. looks to continue its success in the 2026 season.
