Gary Hetherington admits to Kevin Sinfield as he discusses the off-field changes at Leeds Rhinos

Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com – 12/08/2023 – Rugby League – Betfred Women’s Challenge Cup Final – Leeds Rhinos v St Helens – Wembley Stadium, London, England – Gary Hetherington with Eamonn McManus.

Leeds Rhinos are having a difficult season on the pitch. After investing heavily in the final season, they have underperformed in their 12 Super League games so far. The Rhinos recorded six wins, although the nature of their performances was criticized.

As a result, head coach Rohan Smith has become a target for a vocal section of the club’s fan base who want to see the club change head coach. Yesterday, the Rhinos responded to their difficult start to the season by announcing the search for a new Sporting Director.

Leeds legend Kevin Sinfield was the last person to fill the role at the club and has been linked with a return since the news was announced.

Now, speaking in an interview about the new role, Gary Hetherington discussed Sinfield’s previous spell as sporting director and discussed the relationship he expects to have with the new boss.

Leeds Rhinos chief executive admits Sinfield

Credit: Imago Images

Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Hetherington discussed how he envisions the sporting director’s role and how it has changed since Sinfield took over before leaving in 2021.

“Kevin was brought in to effectively oversee the whole rugby league operation, which he did,” explained Hetherington.

“Since he left, it has become even bigger and more involved and more demanding in some ways because there are a lot more protocols with the RFL and so on. Everything expanded.”

“When Kevin did the job, I basically gave up on it altogether. People thought I had a really hard time doing it, but I didn’t because there were so many other things to be busy and involved with.

“Kevin effectively reported to me, as did all the other CEOs, but they are all very competent and need very little management. What I get from myself is support, first and foremost. That will be the position with the new person coming in.”