Hull FC's Rising Star: John Cartwright's Vision for 2026
The future is bright for Hull FC, with head coach John Cartwright ready to lead the team to new heights. In an exclusive interview, Cartwright reveals his ambitious plans for the upcoming season, fueled by the team's remarkable growth and a renewed sense of determination.
Overcoming Challenges, Rising Stronger
2025 was a year of mixed emotions for Hull FC. While they achieved impressive victories, such as their upset win over the Wigan Warriors in the Challenge Cup and a stellar performance against Leigh Leopards, injuries ultimately hindered their progress. Finishing in seventh place and missing out on the Super League playoffs was a setback, but Cartwright remains steadfast in his belief in the team's potential.
"Last year's experiences have only fueled my determination," Cartwright shared with Hull Live. "There were moments when I truly believed we could achieve something extraordinary. Despite the eventual disappointment, I never doubted my players' efforts. They showed up, played through injuries, trained tirelessly, and gave it their all."
A New Year, A New Beginning
As the team embarks on its second year of a three-year contract, Cartwright is confident that the club is in a stronger position than ever. With a focus on improvement and a fresh start, he aims to build upon the progress made in the previous season.
"The club is in a much better place now," Cartwright explained. "Our ownership, staff, facilities, and recruitment efforts have all contributed to this. I genuinely believe we've already made significant strides. With another year together under our belts, we've become a stronger, more cohesive unit."
A Star-Studded Lineup
To bolster the team's strength, Cartwright has brought in eight new players, including Harvie Hill, Joe Batchelor, James Bell, Jake Arthur, Sam Lisone, and Arthur Romano. These additions bring valuable experience, competition, and depth to the squad, ensuring a more robust and versatile lineup.
"Our new recruits bring a wealth of experience and knowledge," Cartwright noted. "They know how to train, win, and navigate the challenges off the field. In the pre-season, they've demonstrated their worth in every way we envisioned."
Consistency and Availability: The Keys to Success
The team's collective goal is now clear: securing a spot in the playoffs. Cartwright emphasizes the importance of consistency and availability, recognizing that these factors will be crucial in turning aspirations into reality.
"We need to be more consistent," he stated. "We know we should have won some games on paper, but in reality, success is built on executing our game plan flawlessly."
Pre-Season Focus: Training Excellence
Cartwright highlights the team's dedication to training excellence during the pre-season. They prioritize proper training, ensuring players report everything and undergo thorough checks by the physios.
"We focus on getting our training right," he explained. "Players report their conditions, and our physios assess them. We tailor our training sessions to the available players and conditions, ensuring we're in the best possible shape."
A Passionate Leader
Cartwright's love for the game and its values is evident. As an Australian coach, he has embraced the club's passion and is determined to take the team to the next level.
"I love the game and what it represents," he said. "My coaching philosophy revolves around instilling respect for the game and fostering a deeper understanding among players. Despite the challenges, my drive to win remains unwavering. I'm thrilled to be part of this club's journey and excited about the future."
