Hull FC Appoint John Cartwright as New Head Coach
According to reports, Hull FC have found their new head coach, as the long-running saga in Super League appears to have finally reached its conclusion. After an extensive search, Hull FC’s director of rugby, Richie Myler, has secured the services of John Cartwright, who will sign a long-term contract to join the Black and Whites for the 2025 season.
Myler’s pursuit of a new head coach has been fraught with challenges, with the likes of Salford Red Devils’ boss Paul Rowley and NRL assistants Brian McDermott and Lee Briers previously turning down the role. However, Cartwright, who has recently signed a new contract with the Leigh Leopards, has now been tapped to succeed Tony Smith as the permanent coach of the Hull FC side.
Cartwright’s Impressive Resume
While Cartwright may not be a household name for casual rugby league fans, he is a coach with significant experience in the NRL, having enjoyed a successful playing career at the top level. The 54-year-old represented New South Wales in State of Origin and earned 18 test caps for Australia, and he has since gained valuable coaching experience at several prominent NRL clubs.
Cartwright spent seven years and eight seasons as the head coach of the Gold Coast Titans between 2007 and 2014, leading the club to the end-of-season play-offs on two occasions in 2009 and 2010, and reaching the preliminary final in 2010. He has also been part of the coaching setup at the North Queensland Cowboys when they won the NRL Grand Final in 2015, and he has more recently joined the Brisbane Broncos ahead of the 2021 season.
Cartwright’s Coaching Approach
Cartwright is known for his hands-on coaching style, preferring to work closely with his players on a day-to-day basis. As he takes on the challenge of turning around a Hull FC side that has lacked leadership and direction, he will need to draw upon all of his experience to achieve success at the MKM Stadium.
With the addition of experienced players like John Asiata and Oliver Holmes set to join the club for the 2025 season, Cartwright will be tasked with using his expertise to guide the Black and Whites back to the top of the rugby league hierarchy.
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