TONY SMITH
Two Super League clubs unveiled new head coaches in the past week, with Tony Smith starting work at Hull FC and Mark Applegarth replacing Willie Poching at Wakefield Trinity. Here, speaking to STEPHEN IBBETSON, they look ahead to the challenges at their respective clubs.
How did this appointment come about?
I've been meeting with some fantastic organisations; doing some work for Sporting Chance, who I've been patron for; some link-up with the LMA (League Managers Association). I was exploring the next chapter in my life, and up until a week and a half ago when I got a text from Adam (Pearson, Hull FC owner) asking if I would have any interest, I had no idea what I was going to do. I won't say that isn't a bit stressful, even as an experienced coach. I was nervous I may not get one of those positions again for a while. I was enjoying it so much and I think I'm okay at it. I certainly get my buzz out of it.