Paul Cooke explains motives as new Championship coaching position confirmed

Featherstone Rovers have confirmed the appointment of former Hull FC and Hull KR half-back Paul Cooke. As exclusively reported by Hull Live last month, Cooke will join James Ford’s backroom staff as assistant coach for the 2025 season. He has signed a one-year deal, having been on the coaching staff at fellow Championship club York Knights this year.

Of course, Cooke debuted as a player back at Hull FC in 1999 and scored the winning try as the Black and Whites defeated Leeds Rhinos in the 2005 Challenge Cup final in Cardiff. He then made an infamous cross-city move to Hull KR in 2007, before spells with Wakefield Trinity and Doncaster. He also played for Featherstone in 2015.

Since retiring, Cooke, now 43, has coached at Doncaster, Leigh, York, and Doncaster Knights in rugby union, with Featherstone his latest challenge.

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"I’m made up to join Featherstone," Cooke said on his move. "It’s a great challenge and one I can’t wait to get started. I’ve admired the club from afar ever since my brief time as a player in 2015.

"It’s a club with so much ambition and a rich history, which I’m pleased to be a part of. The signings Rovers have been making ahead of 2025 are really impressive, and I’m looking forward to lending my support and guidance to achieve something special next year."

Cooke will also link up with Hull-born outside back Connor Wynne at Featherstone, with Ford believing the former half-back will be a positive addition to the club. He added: "I’m delighted to bring Paul into our environment. He’s already forging positive relationships and delivering to an impressive level. I’m confident that he’ll be a fantastic addition to our club and help us move towards our goals for 2025."

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