John Cartwright has been confirmed as Hull FC’s new head coach. Cartwright will take over the reins at the MKM Stadium for the 2025 season, having signed a three-year contract with the Humberside team.
The 58-year-old will have a big job on his hands to turn around a struggling Hull side. The Black and Whites have won just once this season, and their latest defeat came against the Super League’s bottom side, London Broncos. FC have been without a permanent head coach since Tony Smith left the club in April after a run of poor performances.
Hull’s Director of Rugby has been working on finding the right replacement for Smith since his appointment into the role. FC were publicly rejected by Salford Red Devils coach, Paul Rowley. They were then linked with NRL assistant coaches, Brian McDermott and Lee Briers, before attempting to lure Leigh Leopards boss, Adrian Lam, across the Pennines.
Now, the Black and Whites have appointed a coach with significant NRL experience. John Cartwright was head coach at Gold Coast Titans for several years, before working as an assistant with sides such as North Queensland Cowboys, Manly Sea Eagles and the Brisbane Broncos.
Hull FC boss John Cartwright makes first public comments
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Speaking in a press release confirming his appointment, new head coach, John Cartwright, explained his excitement at taking on the role. Cartwright believes the experience he has gained working alongside some of the biggest coaches in NRL has helped him develop since his last head coaching role.
“It’s really exciting for me. When a club the size and the status of Hull FC came along, it was something I really wanted to have a go at.
“My time at the Broncos has made me realise that if a Head Coach role came along, and one that really interested me, then I would like to have a crack at it.
“It’s probably been about ten years since my last Head Coach role. I’ve been very fortunate to work alongside some really good coaches in Paul Green at the Cowboys, Des Hasler at Manly and now Kevin Walters at Brisbane – I made sure I kept learning throughout my time at those clubs.”
Cartwright explains what to expect
Credit: Imago Images
Cartwright went on to explain what Hull fans can expect under his leadership next season. He expects his sides to be in top physical shape, in order to improve on their performance this season. A good pre-season will be key to achieving this aim.
“They’ll be fit, they’ll be hungry and they’ll be enjoying their footy. If we can get those three things happening, that’ll be an improvement from the word go.
“The pre-season is the time where you can get most of your improvement out of the squad, that’s what I’ve found in my time in coaching.
“I’m not sure what the boys are used to, but one thing I can guarantee Hull FC fans is a fit and hungry team for 2025.”
Hull FC fans will be keen to see their new boss in action next season and for the torrid 2024 campaign to be over.
