Hull FC head coach Tony Smith departs after poor start to Super League season

Hull FC head coach Tony Smith has parted ways with the club after a disappointing start to the Super League season. The Australian coach, who took over in September 2022, has overseen just one win from seven league games this season, prompting his departure.

Smith, a vastly experienced coach with stints at Huddersfield, Leeds, and Warrington, as well as both Hull clubs, has struggled to find success with Hull FC. Despite his track record of success, Smith was unable to find a winning formula with the Black and Whites.

The team’s poor form, which included a heavy defeat in the Challenge Cup and a lackluster performance against Huddersfield in Smith’s final game in charge, ultimately led to his exit. Assistant coach Stanley Gene has also left the club, with Simon Grix and Francis Cummins taking over on an interim basis.

Chairman Adam Pearson expressed his gratitude to Smith and Gene for their contributions to the club but stated that the decision to part ways was necessary at this time. The club will now look ahead to their upcoming match against St Helens on 19 April.

Despite the potential and resources at Hull FC, the team has struggled to find consistency under Smith’s leadership. With player discipline issues, dissatisfaction among the squad, and a lack of success on the field, the club will now look to turn things around under new leadership.

As Hull FC searches for a new head coach, fans will be eager to see if the team can bounce back from their poor start to the season and fulfill their potential in the Super League.