But after tomorrow’s Super League Grand Final against Wigan at Old Trafford, the forward will turn his back on England and head Down Under.
Cooper has signed a two-year deal at NRL outfit St George Illawarra Dragons from next season after being granted a release from the remaining year of his Warrington contract.
Victory would be some send-off for Warrington’s departing players – Adrian Morley, Garreth Carvell, Brett Hodgson and Cooper.
The Wolves were last crowned champions in 1955 and boyhood fan Cooper has been on their books since the age of 11.
The 25-year-old said: “People have said I must be crazy wanting to leave a team who are doing so well, but it’s something I need to do. It’s just me and my missus Katie going over and there is no real draw keeping us here.
“If I am ever going to do it, now is the right time. I have a house here I am renting out so everything is ready to go.
“I can always come back so there is no real pressure. The family is right behind me and it’s the right time to do it. I fly out in about three weeks.â€
For so long synonymous with underachievement, Warrington have enjoyed a remarkable renaissance in recent times.
Fuelled by the wealth of music mogul owner Simon Moran, they have lifted the Challenge Cup three times in the past five seasons under Australian coach Tony Smith.
After losing to Leeds Rhinos in their maiden Grand Final 12 months ago, the hope now is they can go all the way.
Cooper said: “I’m a Warrington lad born and bred, so it would mean everything to me to be a part of the first Wolves side to win the Super League trophy.
“It can’t be the same feeling as last year, it just can’t, and we are ready for it this time.â€
Cooper, a quietly effective cog in a well-oiled Warrington machine, is already looking ahead to life at St George.
Article source: http://caledonianmercury.com/2013/09/30/rugby-a-tale-of-two-cities/0042008
Rugby League: Warrington"s Mike Cooper out to fly on a Super League high
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