Hull Kingston Rovers have appointed Chris Chester as the club’s head coach on a permanent basis and he has signed a three-year contract 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.
Impressing in the role in recent weeks, he has now been rewarded by the board of directors with the opportunity to lead the squad during an important period for the club in 2015 and beyond.
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.
“The squad is coming together for next season, we’ve signed some exciting outside backs and we’ve hopefully got some more signings to be announced, but we’re still very much focused on our goals this year.
“There’s six points up for grabs and we’ve got to make sure we finish the season strongly and as high up that ladder as we possibly can. Moving forwards, I think we’re better than just fighting for that eighth spot. We’ve struggled consistency wise this season and that’s something that as coaches and players we have to address.”
A former England Schools captain, Chester enjoyed spells with Halifax, Wigan, Hull FC and the Robins during a distinguished playingcareer 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.
He has now been given the opportunity to lead the Red and Whites and is one of Super League’s youngest coaches at the age of 35.
Hull KR’s chief executive Mike Smith added: “It’s always been the plan to bring somebody through the ranks to one day take over as head coach and Chris has started very well in the role.
“He is somebody who understands the club and the squad of players he will be working with, but more importantly he is a young British coach who is ready for this position and responsibility.
“Chris has served as assistant to two head coaches during his time with the club and he’s played at the highest level under some fantastic coaches as well.
“He’s learnt his trade and he’s very well respected within the game. The board had no hesitation in backing him with a three-year deal and I’m sure the fans will now join us in giving him their full support for the rest of this season and beyond.”
