Hull KR have confirmed that assistant coach Shaun Kenny-Dowall has signed a new contract extension with the club. The new deal keeps the former captain with the Robins until at least the end of the 2026 season.
The former New Zealand international first joined Hull KR ahead of the 2020 season and would spend four years at Craven Park as a player – racking up 93 appearances and 25 tries – before announcing his retirement.
During that four-year spell Kenny-Dowall reigned as one of the best centres in Super League, twice earning Super League Dream Team honours – including in his final season when he helped the Robins to a fourth-place finish.
Upon hanging up the boots the Kiwi transitioned into the role of Development Coach which saw him work within the first-team but with a focus on mentoring Academy talent as well. That role changed ahead of the 2025 season as he became the club’s assistant coach with a primary focus on the club’s attack.
He has now committed to that role until the end of the 2026 season with this new deal.
Hull KR confirm new contract for Shaun Kenny-Dowall
Credit: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
The new deal for Kenny-Dowall was announced by Hull KR in a club statement with the club hailing him impact and the 36-year-old also commenting on the deal.
Hull KR’s statement read: “Hull KR are delighted to announce Assistant Coach, Shaun Kenny-Dowall has signed a new extension with the club, keeping the former Robins’ Captain at Sewell Group Craven Park until the end of the 2026 Betfred Super League Season.”
Commenting on the new role and deal, Kenny-Dowall said: “It’s a massive opportunity for me and I’m really happy to be staying at Hull KR. For me, it was a no-brainer. I love this club and what it’s given me. I’m really grateful for the opportunity to remain here and keep building.
“It’s been really enjoyable in my new role and working with some great coaches. It’s given me the opportunity to keep learning and developing myself.
“With these new responsibilities comes more pressure but I’m enjoying the high pressure, high reward environment as we want to get the best of us as staff and the boys. It’s been a big step up but I’m really enjoying it.”
Head coach Willie Peters added: “Shaun has made great progress in his coaching journey so far from his role as Development Coach to now being an Assistant Coach this season.
“Skids is well respected at the club and his experience in rugby league is a real asset to our playing squad. Skids is settled away from the game with his growing family and has found a real home in Hull. I’m looking forward to seeing Skids continue to develop throughout his coaching journey at Hull KR.”
