Ranking Hull FC’s Ten Coaches: Shaun McRae Leads the Pack

Hull FC has seen a variety of coaching styles and strategies since its promotion to the Super League in 1998. In the past 28 years, the club has experienced significant highs and lows, navigating through challenging seasons and achieving remarkable milestones. Currently, under the leadership of John Cartwright, the team looks to build on recent successes after a difficult 2024 season, aiming for a playoff finish in 2026.

Over this period, Hull FC has employed ten permanent head coaches, each leaving their mark on the club’s history. This article ranks these coaches based on their win percentages, highlighting their contributions and challenges faced during their tenures.

Coaches Ranked by Win Percentage

Starting the list is Peter Walsh, who took over in 1998. Under challenging circumstances, he managed to secure a ninth-place finish in his first season, but a poor run during the 1999 season led to his departure. In total, he oversaw 37 games, winning 12 and losing 25.

Following Walsh, Tony Smith arrived in September 2022. His tenure was marked by fluctuating performance, including a mid-season resurgence in 2023. However, after a disappointing start to 2024, Smith was released after just eight matches, finishing with 22 wins from 53 games.

Next is Brett Hodgson, who faced his own challenges, experiencing promising starts but ultimately falling short in the latter halves of both seasons. His departure came after two consecutive eighth- and ninth-place finishes, tallying 50 wins in 108 games.

Richard Agar led the team during a transitional phase, achieving playoff finishes in 2010 and 2011. His time culminated in a departure at the end of the 2011 season, with a record of 50 wins from 108 games.

John Cartwright, in his inaugural season in 2025, has revitalized Hull FC, leading them to a seventh-place finish, the club’s highest in five years. His leadership restored pride and cohesion within the squad, marking a promising new chapter.

Lee Radford, the longest-serving coach in the Super League era, is fondly remembered for winning the Challenge Cup twice during his six-year tenure. His strategic acumen saw Hull FC secure third-place finishes in both 2016 and 2017. He departed the club in 2020 with 34 wins from 64 matches.

A significant figure in Hull FC’s history, Peter Gentle guided the team to sixth-place finishes in 2012 and 2013. Unfortunately, his tenure ended in disappointment after a heavy playoff eliminator loss, leaving him with 38 wins from 68 games.

Peter Sharp, who succeeded John Kear, made an immediate impact by leading Hull FC to the Super League Grand Final in 2006. He enjoyed a successful spell, finishing fourth in 2007 before leaving in 2008, achieving 24 wins from 43 games.

John Kear, who previously coached Sheffield Eagles to a Challenge Cup victory, also led Hull FC to success, securing the Cup in 2005. His time saw Hull finish fifth in the Super League before his departure in 2006, ending with a record of 89 wins from 158 matches.

Lastly, Peter Sharp, who initially took the reins at the turn of the millennium, guided Hull FC to its first Super League playoff games, achieving notable finishes before returning to the club later as Director of Rugby.

As Hull FC continues to evolve, the legacy of these coaches remains a critical part of the club’s identity. With Cartwright at the helm, the focus now shifts to maintaining momentum and aiming for playoff contention in the upcoming season. The journey of Hull FC’s coaches highlights not only the challenges of the sport but also the enduring spirit of a club that has seen it all.