Adam Pearson is optimistic that Hull FC will have a “brighter future” following some “fundamental changes” to the team. The Black and Whites have reorganised their on-and off-field performance department, seeking new hires from backroom staff, players, coaches, and director of rugby Richie Myler.
Under Myler’s direction, Hull has added nine players for the 2025 campaign so far. John Cartwright, the head coach, Andy Last, the assistant coach, and Andy Shea, the head physiotherapist, have also been appointed. In line with Hull Live’s findings, Pearson also affirmed that the team is still seeking to expand its backroom staff, despite having already made more additions to the conditioning department.
The season ended on Saturday afternoon with a 22-4 loss to Catalans Dragons. Pearson thanked supporters and club partners for their support and expressed hope that the significant changes will benefit the entire team the following season. The chairman called the 2024 season’s on-field performance “embarrassing,” as Hull finished joint-bottom of the Super League and avoided the wooden spoon on points difference.
The level of support we have received through these turbulent times has really impressed me, and for that, I thank every single one of you sincerely,” Pearson said. “I must say a heartfelt thank you to everybody who has supported us throughout what has been an incredibly challenging year.”
To be honest, there is no question that our organisation needs to undergo significant adjustments with reference to both on- and off-field individuals. The board agrees with me that we can’t let this go on. The foundation is in place to guarantee that the team will appear and feel very different from this season to the next. Under John Cartwright’s direction, we have already made significant progress in our 2025 recruiting class with the addition of Jordan Rapana and Aidan Sezer, who will undoubtedly bring invaluable experience to our team.
“Andy Last, who will work under John, will also rejoin the club in 2025. Considering that he has extensive coaching experience and is well-versed with the club, I think this is a wise appointment. Also, we are pleased to welcome Andy Shea to the team as our new head physiotherapist. Andy has previous experience working for teams including Manchester United, Cardiff City, and Newcastle Falcons. We are constantly working to add more fresh faces to our backstage personnel and are not content to sit on our laurels.
“These adjustments have been made to make sure the team won’t have to go through another season nearly like this one. The club’s senior management team is working extremely hard to get the team back up off the ground and back on track because it has been an embarrassing season for the team on the pitch. I completely understand the frustration of the supporters and our partners in that regard.”
With improvements made in every facet of performance, Pearson believes he is once again “optimistic” about the future, with the seasoned additions working in tandem with a group of young, talented players who want to guide the team into the future.
“Hull FC has a bright future ahead of them,” he continued. I have faith in that. Even though the season ended this year in such a dismal way on the pitch, the work that has been done behind the scenes over the past few months has given me newfound excitement and vigour ahead of the 2025 campaign.
“We walk the range together in all weather conditions, to the tune of the club anthem. Once again, I want to thank you for your support and hope to see you back with us in 2025, which I believe will be much more pleasurable.”
