James Webster (rugby league)


James Webster is an Australian professional rugby league football coach who is head coach of Featherstone Rovers in the Betfred Championship, and a former professional player.
He was previously of the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats and Hull Kingston Rovers. Webster played as a or in the National Rugby League for Australian clubs Balmain Tigers and Parramatta Eels. He then played in the Super League for Hull Kingston Rovers, Hull F.C. and the Widnes Vikings. Webster stayed in England after retiring from playing and became a coach.

Background

Webster was born in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.

Playing career

Balmain Tigers

Webster played rugby league in his home town of Sydney for the Balmain Tigers. Webster played in Balmain's final ever match as a first grade side, a 42–14 loss against Canberra. Balmain then went on to merge with fellow foundation club Western Suburbs as part of the NRL rationalisation policy.

Parramatta Eels

Webster then moved to the Parramatta Eels, making 22 appearances in his time with Parramatta.

Hull Kingston Rovers

Webster was released from Hull Kingston Rovers on 2 May 2008.

Hull FC

Webster eventually joined rivals Hull. After only one game in a black and white jersey - Webster was released from his contract.

Widnes Vikings

It was then announced he had signed a 2-year contract with Widnes. He joined National League One side Widnes for the 2009 season.

Coaching career

Hull FC

Webster turned his back on his playing career to focus on his coaching role with former club Hull, when he returned to the black and whites as Assistant Coach in 2010. He worked closely alongside Head Coach Richard Agar and fellow Assistant Coach Andy Last in his first major coaching opportunity, whilst he is also involved in the development of other young coaches with the Rugby Football League. Early 2014 James was playing for amateur rugby club Hornsea RUFC, He has earned one cap and also offers coaching support.

Wakefield Trinity Wildcats

On 2 June 2014, Webster replaced the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats head coach Richard Agar as the new head coach of the Super League club. On 19 May 2015, Webster left Wakefield Trinity Wildcats.

Hull Kingston Rovers

In March 2016, Webster was named Interim Coach of Hull Kingston Rovers replacing the sacked Chris Chester.
Webster became the assistant coach at Hull Kingston Rovers when he was replaced by Tim Sheens as head coach from the 2017 season.

Featherstone Rovers

In October 2019, was named Head coach of Featherstone Rovers replacing Ryan Carr who return home to Australia