Wakefield appoint Chris Chester

Wakefield Trinity Wildcats have appointed former Hull KR coach Chris Chester as the club’s head coach and John Kear as the head of rugby.

Chester is from the Wakefield area and had a 52% win rate in his time with the Robins. The 37-year old takes over after the exit of Brian Smith.

Chairman Michael Carter said: “I am delighted to get Chris on board and look forward to him taking this Club forward. There were some excellent candidates who applied and I thank them all for their interest.”

Chris Chester said: “I am delighted to become Head Coach of Wakefield Wildcats, especially as it is my home town club and a club with a lot of traditions. I have been stood on these terraces as a young kid and I am really proud that I now get to coach this great team.”

Kear has been made Wakefield’s head of rugby for the 2017 season.

“Having known John for many years, it is great that John wants to join us to lead this club from the front,” Carter said.

“He will give myself and others at the Club the benefits of his vast knowledge of the game, and I look forward to working side by side with John.”

Kear said he was excited and delighted to return to the Wildcats after his time at Batley.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my five years at the club and intend to enjoy the remainder of my time with Batley,” he said.

“I am looking forward to joining the Wildcats and I will look to bring stability and improvement across the whole football department. I am excited to be able to work alongside Michael Carter, Chris Chester and Chris Brereton in order to progress this great club forward.”