Hull appoint Tony Smith as new head coach

Tony Smith is back in rugby league after being appointed Hull’s new head coach for 2023. 

Smith, 55, takes the vacant role following the departure of Brett Hodgson, who spent two seasons in charge of the club.  

The Australian-born coach left his role at Hull KR mid-way through the season, having announced 2022 would be his last at Craven Park.

He has amassed over 500 career games as a head coach including stints at Huddersfield, Leeds, Warrington and England. 

Tony Smith: ‘It’s a great opportunity’

Smith said: “It’s a great opportunity – one that I wasn’t expecting so soon, but I’m very grateful and excited to get started.

“I understand the challenges ahead but the overwhelming feeling for me at the moment is excitement about restoring some pride in the club and taking us to some greater heights.

“In the past, I’ve had an association with the club through my family and – and lived in the city for a while – I’ve got a great understanding of how big the club is and how much passion there is for the club to be successful.

“I’m looking forward to playing a part in the club’s great history and hopefully we can create some more great memories for the future. I can’t wait to get started.”

Hull chairman Adam Pearson added: “We are pleased to welcome Tony, a coach of undoubted calibre and experience with proven success in Super League.

“We have identified areas we feel we need to improve within our first-team environment and we believe Tony is well suited for that challenge.”

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