Following the news of his exit from Leigh Leopards, where he had been Director of Rugby, another Super League side has appointed Chris Chester to the same role.
Reports of Chester’s exit from Leigh began in April and his exit was confirmed last weekend at Super League Magic Weekend with Sky Sport’s Jenna Brooks quoting him as saying he felt he had “taken the club as far as he possibly could”.
Leigh head coach Adrian Lam has previously addressed the reports and hailed the impact Chester had had at Leigh, during both their time in the Championship and on their return to Super League.
He told the media: “The journey has been unbelievable. I’m not sure officially what’s out there but we’re still great mates regardless of what ends up happening.”
It has now been confirmed that he has joined Castleford Tigers in the same role of Director of Rugby, something which triggers a shift among the hierarchy at Wheldon Road.
Castleford Tigers appoint Chris Chester in Super League switch
The Tigers confirmed the news via statement as they hailed Chester’s impact at Leigh which had seen him bring the likes of Tom Amone, Edwin Ipape, Kai O’Donnell and John Asiata, among others, to Super League.
Castleford will be hoping he can work that same magic with them in his role of Director of Rugby, a role that sees Danny Wilson shift to Chief Executive Officer.
The club statement read: “Castleford Tigers are pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Chester to the role of Director of Rugby.
“He joins the Tigers having been in that role at Leigh Leopards where he oversaw the most successful time in their history over a three-and-half year stay.
“Bringing a wealth of experience and deep knowledge of the game, Chester will be responsible for recruitment and overseeing the effective delivery of the club’s performance pathway and integrated structure within the club’s vision.”
On the internal reshuffle, Danny Wilson said: “It’s fantastic to be able to attract Chris to join us at Castleford Tigers and his experience and track record in this role is another step forward in the clubs journey. It is a brilliant time for him to join Castleford following Martins announcement to take full control and his desire to get the club back to where it belongs.”
Club owner Martin Jepson said: “I am delighted to welcome Chris to the club. His pedigree speaks for itself, and I look forward to working with him in the coming years. His appointment allows Danny to move into the Chief Executive role and take a more strategic position within the club.
I congratulate them both and wish them every success as we strive to rebuild the club’s fortunes on and off the field.
“I will be making more announcements about the structure of the Board in the next few weeks.”
Castleford Tigers are pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Chester to the role of Director of Rugby.
He joins the Tigers having been in that role at Leigh Leopards where he oversaw the most successful time in their history over a three-and-half year stay.
Bringing a… pic.twitter.com/m3o2td1H0w— Castleford Tigers (@CTRLFC) May 8, 2025
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