Rugby league luminary John Kear has passed away at the age of 71. The esteemed former coach of England, Sheffield, Hull, Wakefield, Batley, Bradford, and Widnes, who had provided commentary for the BBC during the Challenge Cup final on Saturday, unexpectedly passed away the following Sunday afternoon.
Kear spent a decade as a player at Castleford before transitioning to coaching with Bramley in 1992. He then moved on to French team PSG before joining Sheffield Eagles in 1997. It was with Sheffield Eagles that he achieved one of rugby league’s greatest upsets by defeating Wigan in the 1998 Challenge Cup final at Wembley.
His coaching career also saw him lead Hull FC to victory in the 2005 Challenge Cup final. Following his time at Hull, Kear went on to coach Wakefield, as well as second-tier teams Batley, Bradford, and Widnes. He notably guided the England team to the semi-finals of the Rugby League World Cup in 2000.
In a statement, the RFL paid tribute to Kear, highlighting his unexpected Challenge Cup final victories with Sheffield Eagles and Hull FC. Kear, who had a career spanning over 700 matches, was a beloved figure in the sport and beyond, known for his coaching success and broadcasting work with the BBC.
Kear’s impact extended to Wakefield Trinity, Batley Bulldogs, and various national teams, including France, England, and Wales. His impressive career did not include coaching his beloved Castleford Tigers, despite his close ties to the club.
As a commentator and broadcaster, Kear was a familiar presence on the BBC, covering events like the Challenge Cup. Tributes poured in from his former clubs, with Wakefield Trinity and Hull FC expressing their deep sadness at his passing and extending condolences to his family and friends.