The rugby league world is mourning the loss of John Kear, the iconic Super League coach and broadcaster, who died suddenly at the age of 71. His passing came just one day after he provided commentary for the BBC at the Challenge Cup final.
A Sudden Loss
Kear, a former player and coach, collapsed and died on Monday, leaving the sport in shock. He had been working at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, calling the match between Wigan Warriors and Hull Kingston Rovers in front of a packed crowd. The news was confirmed by the Rugby Football League (RFL), which led tributes to a man who dedicated over five decades to the sport.
Tributes from the Rugby Community
RFL chair Nigel Wood expressed the collective grief of the sport. "On behalf of the whole sport, our thoughts and condolences are with John's wife Dawn, his family, and with those who played or worked alongside him over the last 50 years," Wood said. "Having had a 10-year playing career at Castleford, he found his passion for coaching, which saw him oversee more than 700 games. He coached England in the 2000 World Cup, Wales in the 2017 and 2021 World Cups, led Sheffield Eagles and Hull FC to Challenge Cup victories, and most recently took Batley Bulldogs to the Championship Grand Final. But John was also an excellent broadcast summariser with a great turn of phrase and an undiluted love for the sport."
Remembering a Career
Kear made 133 appearances for Castleford between 1978 and 1988 before transitioning into coaching. He later coached Bradford Bulls in 2022 and had spells at Hull FC and the Wales national team. Wales Rugby League paid tribute, with chairman James Davies saying, "John was highly respected throughout the rugby league community. He was instrumental in the development of many of Wales' players over the past decade, and his contribution to the game will not be forgotten." Clive Griffiths, Director of Performance for Wales Rugby League, added, "He was not only an outstanding international class coach but also a great friend and human being. His work keeping the Wales Rugby League flag flying will always be remembered."
Hull FC's Farewell
Hull FC's Chief Operating Officer Tony Sutton also shared his condolences. "I, and everyone across the club, was deeply saddened to hear about John's passing. He was a true rugby league man through and through, with deep knowledge of the game, who always had time to stop for a chat. The memories of John's time with us, particularly that wonderful day at the Challenge Cup Final in Cardiff in 2005, will be in our minds today."
Kear's death has left a void in the rugby league community. He will be remembered not only for his achievements on the field but for his passion, enthusiasm, and unwavering love for the game he served for so many years.
