John Kear appointed coach of Wales
The Wales Rugby League have announced that their new national team coach is veteran campaigner John Kear.
The former England and France coach brings a wealth of experience to the role, and will also continue in his current job as head coach of Batley Bulldogs.
He will take charge of the Welsh team this autumn, when they meet France, Scotland and Ireland in the European Championships.
Kear coach England in 2000, taking them to the semi-finals of the World Cup, and also coached France in 2007.
He hopes that his experience at the top level, which includes steeing Sheffield Eagles to a famous Challenge Cup final win in 1998, will help revitalise the fortunes of Wales.
“I’m really delighted to have this opportunity as the new head coach of Wales Rugby League,” he said.
“I’m a big believer in international Rugby League as my background shows. I really think that I can make a big contribution to the game in Wales that will allow us to qualify and do well in Rugby League World Cup 2017.
“A strong international game is essential for Rugby League. The more competitive teams we have at the highest level the better and it’s my challenge to turn Wales into one of those top teams.
“I’m really looking forward to a long relationship with Wales Rugby League as we build for 2017 and beyond.”
Wales Rugby League chairman Brian Juliff explained that Kear was chosen because of his proven ability to get the best out of players, as well as his experience.
“The appointment of John Kear as head coach brings a wealth of experience forged at the highest level of the game to Wales Rugby League,” said Juliff.
“His knowledge and proven ability to bring the very best out of his players makes him an ideal fit for Wales Rugby League at this formative time.
“It was important to bring in someone who shares our values and is committed to our vision ‘to be a top four Rugby League Nation in governance and performance’.
“John’s immediate challenge is to balance a young but very capable Wales squad into a winning team at this year’s European Championship and thereafter lay the foundation for success at the Rugby League World Cup 2017.
“I look forward to building a strong and supportive relationship with John to underpin the undoubted potential of Wales Rugby League.”
