Following his retirement from Super League, Paul Vaughan has secured his future in rugby league with the ex-Australian international taking on a player-coach role down under.

Paul Vaughan was one of several star players to retire at the end of the Super League season with Liam Farrell and Jonny Lomax among the most iconic, whilst Leeds Rhinos’ Ryan Hall also called time on his career.

Vaughan had an option to stay on with York Knights for another year but the 35-year-old former Italy and Australia international opted to call time on his career at the elite level, however, it’s now been confirmed that he will play on.

It’s been announced that Vaughan will sign with Junee Diesels in a player-coach role for 2027 with the Diesels playing in the Group 9 Rugby League competition in New South Wales – the same competition that released Castleford Tigers forward Joe Stimson has signed to, though Stimson will play for Temora Dragons.

Paul Vaughan confirms next steps after York Knights’ exit

The Diesels have had some incredible players across their time with Laurie Daley a former junior as well as former Hull KR standout Michael Dobson coming through their system.

Now, Paul Vaughan will work as an assistant coach who also plays in a role that is similar to what Tommy Makinson will take on with the ex-St Helens man also retiring and heading down under for a player-coach role.

Vaughan had an incredible career in Australia before moving to Super League, where he played for four seasons – three at Warrington and one at York.

During his time in England, he made 106 appearances with 94 of those coming in Super League as he proved to be a standout overseas player, especially in his final year at York when he scored eight tries and stepped up as a leader in an inexperienced side.

He’ll now take that leadership into his player-coach role with the Diesels having called time on professional rugby league.

Related Topics