Keighley Cougars have implemented a major structural shake-up ahead of the 2027 season, confirming former star Matt Bramald as their new Head Coach alongside the appointment of Richard Dibbin as Head of Rugby Operations.
The dual appointment signals a fresh chapter at Cougar Park following the departure of Ian Hardman, with the club moving quickly to overhaul both their on-field coaching dynamic and off-field operational support as preparations for next year gather momentum.
Returning to familiar surroundings, 53-year-old Bramald spent two years as a utility back for Keighley during his playing career between 2004 and 2006, scoring 27 tries in 63 appearances.
He also previously coached the club’s reserves and under-21s before taking on first-grade head coaching duties at Hunslet and working within youth development systems at Castleford Tigers and Featherstone Rovers.
Speaking on his return to the hotseat, Bramald expressed his excitement at taking on the rebuilding job at Cougar Park:
“I’m absolutely delighted to be returning to Keighley as head coach. It’s a club I know well and one that means a great deal to me. There is plenty of hard work ahead, but that challenge is exactly what excites me.”
Bramald added: “I’m looking forward to meeting the players, getting onto the training field and beginning to build a team that works hard, represents the club and the town properly, and gives our supporters something to be proud of. I’d like to thank everyone involved in the appointment for putting their trust in me. I genuinely can’t wait to get started.”
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Bramald joined at Keighley by Richard Dibbin in new rugby operations setup
Working alongside Bramald off the pitch will be Richard Dibbin, who joins as Head of Rugby Operations to lead recruitment, backroom organisation, and general administration. Dibbin, who currently serves as Chairman of local amateur side Keighley Albion, will complete his commitments with the amateur club before transitioning fully into his Cougars role.
Outlining his duties and the culture he aims to build, Dibbin stated:
“I’m really excited about this opportunity and determined to make a positive contribution to Keighley Cougars.Â
“Working closely with the owners and Matty, I’ll support recruitment, help assemble the backroom team and oversee the practical organisation of rugby operations. Coaching, team selection and on-field preparation will remain the responsibility of Matty and his coaching staff.”
Dibbin added: “We want passion and hunger throughout this team. We want players who genuinely want to be at Keighley, who are prepared to work hard for each other and who understand how much this club means to its supporters. We can’t promise to win every game, but we are committed to building a team that gives everything every week. There’s plenty to do, and I can’t wait to get stuck in.”
The double appointment locks in a completely revamped leadership structure as Keighley look to assemble a competitive squad and lay strong foundations for the 2027 campaign.
