LAMAMIMET

John Kear was born on 25 November 1954 in Castleford, West Riding of Yorkshire, and began his rugby league career as a winger and centre for Castleford, appearing in notable matches such as the 1983 Yorkshire Cup Final. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching, taking early roles with Bramley, Paris Saint‑Germain and the Rugby Football League's performance department.\n\nKear achieved fame as head coach of the Sheffield Eagles, guiding them to a historic 1998 Challenge Cup triumph over Wigan Warriors, and later replicated success with Hull F.C., winning the 2005 Challenge Cup. He also coached Wakefield Trinity to their highest ever Super League finish and led the England national team at the 2000 World Cup.\n\nIn his later years, Kear coached the Batley Bulldogs and Bradford Bulls, earning a reputation as a "giant killer" in cup competitions, and worked as a pundit for BBC Sport. He died suddenly on 31 May 2026, a day after commentating on the Challenge Cup final, leaving a lasting legacy in English rugby league.