Hawaiian honeymoon is a chance to spread the game for Patterson

IF you want proof rugby league never stops, speak with the wife of departing NRL forward Cory Paterson.

IF you want proof rugby league never stops, speak with the wife of departing NRL forward Cory Paterson.

Only two weeks after marrying his lovely partner Sarah, Paterson has agreed to coach the Hawaiian All Stars while celebrating his honeymoon on the US holiday island.

The 25-year-old Newcastle product, who joins Hull in the English Super League next season, is one of several leaguies now spreading the league gospel long after official NRL duties are done.

Only last weekend in Bangkok, Gold Coast duo Kevin Gordon and Matt Srama were part of a Philippines side that squeaked home against Thailand 86-0. Referee Gavin Badger and wife Kasey controlled the match on what was their second wedding anniversary.

Paterson this weekend at Kaiser Stadium, Oahu, takes on the role of Hawaii's head coach for a match against a touring Queensland Indigenous side.

"Thankfully my wife is fairly understanding," he said. "I was actually chatting with David Niu, who runs the American Rugby League, a few weeks back and he told me about the Hawaiian game.

"We've had a training camp this week which has been great."

So did wife Sarah take much convincing? "Oh, we've got plenty of time here," he laughed. "So a couple of footy days won't hurt."