Hull KR have confirmed their new assistant coach following Danny Ward’s move to London with the Super League champions acting fast to replace Ward.
Not only have they acted fast but they’ve also moved to bring in a coach with plentiful experience in Super League, with ex-Salford Red Devils and Huddersfield Giants coach Ian Watson appointed as the Robins’ new assistant coach.
It feels like a serious statement of intent from Hull KR that they’re able to attract a coach of the quality of Watson to an assistant’s role, but such is the pull of the Super League champions.
Watson left Huddersfield Giants during the 2024 season with his assistant Luke Robinson taking an interim and then the permanent head coaching role.
Since Watson’s exit from the Giants, he’s been coaching in rugby union with Hull KR securing his release from Seattle Seawolves in Major League Rugby. He’ll now become the Robins’ defence coach after signing a two-year deal at Craven Park.
Hull KR hire Ian Watson in impressive appointment
News of Watson’s return came by surprise with his name mentioned more in terms of head coaching roles, as opposed to as an assistant.
Hull KR confirmed his appointment via a statement which read: “Hull KR are pleased to announce the appointment of Ian Watson as Assistant Coach on a two-year deal, which will see the experienced coach join the Robins’ coaching staff ahead of the 2026 Betfred Super League season.”
Still only 48 but with plenty of experience in coaching, Watson took both Salford Red Devils and Huddersfield Giants to major finals with the Red Devils making both the Grand Final and Challenge Cup Final in 2019 and 2020.
Speaking on his appointment, Watson said: “I’m honoured and excited to be joining a great club like Hull KR with great staff, players and supporters at its core with a champion attitude. It is an environment and an opportunity I can’t wait to be a part of.”
Head coach Willie Peters, who is currently working as an assistant coach to Kevin Walters in the Australian national team set-up, hailed the appointment.
Peters said: “I admired how Ian coached Huddersfield as they were always a difficult team to break down and beat.
“They never lost on effort and competing, which are two values we hold in high regard at Hull KR. Ian is obsessed with coaching and loves the game and they’re areas that will no doubt help our players reach their full potential.”
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