Rovers appoint Chester as head coach

Hull Kingston Rovers have appointed Chris Chester as the club’s head coach on a permanent basis, signed a three-year deal at the KC Lightstream Stadium.

The former Robins player and assistant coach was placed in temporary charge of all first team duties in July following the departure of Craig Sandercock.

Speaking to www.hullkr.co.uk, he said: “I’m absolutely delighted. It’s a dream come true for me and I’m going to do my utmost to get this side back to where it belongs.

“It’s a great honour and privilege to be the head coach of Hull Kingston Rovers and I want to put on record my thanks to the directors who have been fantastic with me over the past six weeks.

“It’s been a testing period with some ups and downs but I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity. I’ve not been afraid to make the big decisions, I’ve been honest with the players and they’ve been honest with me in return, so hopefully that will continue.

A former England Schools captain, Chester enjoyed spells with Halifax, Wigan, Hull FC and the Robins during a distinguished playing career and featured in two Super League Grand Finals as well as a Challenge Cup final.

Hanging up his boots in 2008 through injury, he joined Hull KR’s coaching staff following a brief spell working with Castleford’s academy and has served his apprenticeship as the assistant to both Justin Morgan and Sandercock over the past six seasons.