“I’m worried about the future of our sport” – How social media reacted to Kevin Sinfield’s departure from Leeds

It was one of the most talked-about stories of the year, with Kevin Sinfield’s exit from Leeds confirmed with the legend heading to the Leicester Tigers. But, just how did you react?

Legend Rob Burrow expressed his love for his friend in his new role.

Just want to wish Kevin Sinfield OBE all the best in his new role. You have never failed in anything, you're not going to start now

— Rob Burrow CBE (@Rob7Burrow) June 17, 2021

Another Leeds fan was “gutted”.

And you, have a great weekend. Gutted that Kevin Sinfield is leaving @leedsrhinos to go to union #sadtimes

— Gail 💙💛 (@GroovyGail57) June 18, 2021

Despite that mainstream view, one Leeds fan was glad to see Sinfield leave.

https://twitter.com/dannymfoster/status/1405398555360178180?s=20

That opinion was also shared by another fan.

About time too !!!!!!! Been pinching money for years.

— Ian Savory (@ISavory) June 17, 2021

Another Leeds supporter was annoyed at the lack of arrivals.

The gift that keeps on giving @leedsrhinos! More departures than arrivals 👍

— GRACE Scaffolding (YORKSHIRE) Limited (@gracescaffyorks) June 17, 2021

Another Leeds fan had mixed feelings about the departure.

Mixed feelings about this one. Gutted to see him go, but can’t see what difference he has made. We’re no better off than we were in 2018. Clubs just treading water. Win% roughly 50% in Kevin’s tenure. All the best

— Clem Fandango (@19JamBon86) June 17, 2021

One Rhinos supporter said it was bad for the sport as a whole.

Sad news for us, but also for the game. Kev is probably the only person associated with League that people around the country know. It will be a big show of power from Union. Might be overreacting but I'm worried about the future of our sport

— Damo (@damopbooth) June 17, 2021

It was also “sad to see” according to another fan.

https://twitter.com/metalliman72/status/1405410485420367874?s=20

Again, that opinion was shared widely.

Leeds Rhinos are a better club with Kevin involved. A sad day for the club IMO. Very disappointing news.

— Richard Stockdale (@Richipops1) June 17, 2021

One Leeds fan said the Rhinos had been lucky to have him.

Noooo!! But good luck, Kevin. They're lucky to have you! And we've been lucky to have you too.

— Jo Gamble (@joannespike) June 17, 2021

Another Rhinos fan believed it summed the club’s season as a whole.

https://twitter.com/Russlufc/status/1405610103135481859?s=20

One Leeds fan was unsure over what direction the club should go in next.

Gunna be a big hole to fill, think he could do a great job helping bring players in and keep them once here. Be interesting to see what happens next

— just like a guy (@OriginalHobson) June 17, 2021