Tributes have poured in for rugby league legend John Kear, who has died suddenly at the age of 71. Kear, who masterminded Sheffield Eagles' famous Challenge Cup win in 1998, died on Sunday, a day after working as a commentator at this year's final.
Former Sheffield hooker Johnny Lawless paid tribute to Kear's man-management skills, saying: 'How he managed people was like no other. He put his arm around people and made you believe you could do stuff you probably doubted yourself. He was one of those coaches you'd do anything for, you'd run through a brick wall for him.'
Kear's coaching career spanned nearly 40 years and more than 700 games. He led Hull to Challenge Cup glory in 2005 and also coached Wakefield, Bradford, Widnes, Paris St Germain and Batley, as well as international sides England, Wales and France.
Castleford's director of rugby Chris Chester, who played under Kear at Hull and Wakefield, described him as 'an unbelievable coach' and 'a great mentor'. Former Hull team-mate Paul Cooke wrote on X: 'Rest in eternal peace boss. You gave me the greatest rugby league day of my life.'
Kear began his playing career as a winger for hometown club Castleford, making 133 first-team appearances. After retiring from coaching last year, he remained a respected broadcaster and pundit.
