Hess to stick with his beloved Cowboys
JON TUXWORTH THE North Queensland Cowboys have locked down one of their key pieces long term by re-signing back rower Coen Hess until the end of the 2022 season.
The 22-year-old, who has played five Origin games for Queensland the past two years, was signed until the end of next year but the club has moved swiftly to ensure he remains at the club he joined as a 15-year-old in 2011.
“This club means everything to me. Growing up in Mt Isa, I have lived and breathed the Cowboys for as long as I can remember,” Hess said.
“Getting my first taste of the NRL with the Cowboys was a dream come true and this club has become a massive part of my life.
“I’ve never wanted to play for any other club other than the Cowboys. Matt Scott and Paul Bowman are legends of this club and are two players I have always looked up to.
“They are both one club players and hopefully one day I can be considered in the same regard as them.
“I’m extremely passionate about the North Queensland region. The lifestyle here is second to none. I grew up here and I hope to live here for the rest of my playing career and beyond.”
Hess’s signing is a major boost for the Cowboys with stalwart forwards Gavin Cooper and Matt Scott both big chances to retire at the end of next season.
“Coen Hess is one of the best young forwards in the game and at 22 all of his best football is in front of him,” Cowboys director of football Peter Parr said.
“He’s a North Queenslander, he’s come through our Elite Pathways Program and he’s ticked every box along the way.
“Given his age, what he’s already done in the game and the level we believe he will get to, it was an easy decision on our part to secure him long term.
“He’s a wonderful young bloke. Every club is not only looking for good football players, they’re looking for people who are of good character and Coen fits that bill.
“We not only think he will boost our on-field performances, but as he gets older play a really key off field role as well.”