Long-serving star to join Leeds rugby league club's staff after playing retirement as coach stays on
Club legend Jimmy Watson will join Hunslet RLFC’s backroom staff when he retires from playing at the end of this season.
Watson will work alongside head-coach Kyle Trout who has been re-appointed for 2027. The 34-year-old full-back has made more than 250 appearances since joining Hunslet from Leeds Rhinos’ academy 13 years ago.
Trout said: “Pride in the shirt is going to be non-negotiable for anyone joining this club. Jimmy Watson epitomises what being a Hunslet player is all about and will play a key role embedding the right culture throughout the club.”
Trout took over as head-coach in July, 2025 after a spell as assistant and has been confirmed as team boss for next year following a review by the club’s board. Chairman Kenny Sykes said: “We recognise Kyle has had to handle a difficult situation with players retiring, leaving to take opportunities in Australia and several long-term injuries, all of which has meant heavy reliance on the loan market. Despite that, we believe there have been improvements from last season and there is a clear direction of travel.
“The team is looking stronger and while some players will be moving on in 2027 we will be retaining a good core which can only help in creating a greater sense of togetherness. We believe Kyle is the right person to take us forward.
“He is a young coach with imaginative ideas, enthusiasm and a passion for the club which is clear for all to see. Continuity gives us the opportunity to build rather than start again and that is important as we prepare for 2027.”
Trout added: “I am really pleased to have the opportunity to continue as head-coach. This season has provided plenty of challenges, but it has also given me and the staff a much better understanding of what we need to do to move Hunslet forward.
“The recent performances and results have shown what this team can do when we get things right. We now need to build on that, strengthen the squad and make sure the lessons from this season are reflected in everything we do next year.
“We’ve still got two games to play and we want to finish strongly. Then we’ll be fully focused on making 2027 a season Hunslet supporters can really get behind.”