After an illustrious tenure as a head coach in the domestic rugby league, John Kear has officially announced his retirement from the role. With a career spanning several decades, Kear has overseen prominent teams such as Wakefield Trinity, Bradford Bulls, and Widnes Vikings.
Following his departure from Widnes earlier this year, the 69-year-old has opted to step back from the rigours of being a head coach in the domestic league. Citing the joy of experiencing an off-season, a luxury he has not indulged in since the 1990s, Kear expressed his delight in having more time to dedicate to his family, hobbies, and his canine companion.
While Kear has indicated that he will not be pursuing a permanent head coaching position in the foreseeable future, he has shown openness to taking on consultancy or advisory roles, drawing parallels to Neil Warnock’s arrangement with football clubs. Despite his decision to step away from club coaching, Kear has underlined his commitment to continue leading the Wales national team and engaging in punditry work. His decision reflects a desire to embrace a more relaxed pace after years of intense, year-round commitments associated with being a club head coach.
For access to further information on this development, interested individuals may avail themselves of the digital or online editions of League Express. Similarly, the League Express Podcast is available to listeners and widely offered for purchase at local newsagents across the north of England.
John Kear’s retirement from coaching domestic teams undeniably marks the conclusion of a significant era in the domestic rugby league. However, fans can anticipate his continued contribution to the sport in his roles with the Wales national team and as a pundit. The rugby league community extends its best wishes to Kear as he embarks on this new chapter of his illustrious career.