John Cartwright Aims to Rebuild Hull FC Inspired by Penrith Panthers

 

John Cartwright is drawing inspiration from his roots at the Penrith Panthers as he seeks to restore Hull FC to their former glory in the Super League. The newly appointed head coach, who hails from Penrith, was part of the squad that achieved the club’s first Premiership triumph as a player in 1991.

As he watched the Panthers secure their fourth successive Premiership title in 2024, Cartwright understands the vital elements that contribute to a successful rugby league club. The Panthers have thrived by developing talent from within, capitalizing on the world’s largest junior rugby league system to ensure their team boasts a homegrown core.

However, Cartwright believes the philosophy extends beyond simply fielding local talent. There exists a profound connection at the foot of the mountains, where Penrith players take immense pride in representing their community. Cartwright’s ambition is to cultivate a similar atmosphere at Hull FC, with the 59-year-old ready to take the helm for the next three years.

The striking parallels between the two regions are evident. Both Hull and Penrith are working-class cities with passionate rugby league followings. Hull is also on a mission to nurture talent from within, acknowledging the long-term advantages of such a strategy. While success can never be assured, the club is committed to making this vision a reality.

“Many clubs aspire to do this, but it requires time,” Cartwright told Hull Live. “Penrith’s success is the result of groundwork laid when Nathan Cleary and Jerome Luai were just 14 and 15 years old, and Isaah Yeo was about 16 or 17. They came through a system where they developed friendships and an intimate understanding of each other’s playing styles.

“Moreover, they are genuinely proud of their locality. I have the privilege of knowing many of those players well. In my playing days, attracting players to the Penrith region was a challenge; it was often seen as a remote outpost. Nowadays, it’s the opposite; players are reluctant to leave, and many want to join the club.

“They’re fortunate to be situated in a passionately rugby league-oriented area with over 10,000 children participating in local competitions. The larger the player pool, the better the chances are of unearthing future stars. Reviewing the NRL, it’s apparent that numerous players at different clubs have their roots in the Penrith junior system.

“While they have retained their standout talents, many others have moved on to different clubs. I see Hull with a similar vibe, albeit on a smaller scale. It embodies that close-knit community spirit; it’s a town that lives and breathes rugby league. In my short time here, I’ve sensed the fervor among the locals. Their well-wishes have been heartfelt, showcasing their passion for the club.

“Ultimately, success requires patience. It’s not merely about acquiring players; it’s vital to establish a robust foundation, starting from school engagements, nurturing junior clubs, and ensuring we look after our fans on game day. A lot goes into building a successful club.”

Recognizing Hull FC’s place in the community, Cartwright is committed to enhancing the club’s performance on the field and its reputation off it while strengthening the bond between players and supporters. Cartwright believes this relationship is pivotal to creating a thriving club.

He remarked: “A significant part of my role will involve instilling awareness in the players about the jersey they wear and the importance of representing the community they belong to. I often refer to the fans as the 14th player. When they cheer us on, it’s as if we have an extra man on the field, and that support can be a game-changer.

“For us, it’s not only about improvement on the pitch—although it naturally follows from our efforts. We must regain the community’s backing both on and off the field. I cherish working in areas with enthusiastic supporters. My time at the North Queensland Cowboys taught me the value of community involvement, which Hull is also passionate about. These aspects go hand in hand.

“At the end of the day, we want to walk off the pitch to a chorus of cheers rather than jeers. That is our challenge—we must earn the community’s support through victories, along with embodying the values that resonate within the community.

Ultimately, Cartwright’s philosophy hinges upon instilling pride among supporters. He values hard work, determination, and resilience, realizing the necessary components for success and aiming to reignite the pride and enthusiasm at Hull FC.

“Every time our players don this jersey, I want them to appreciate the legacy they represent—the rich history of Hull FC. While conversations may center around recent years, it’s crucial to remember that this club has over a century of remarkable achievements behind it.

“The people I’ve encountered here have left me profoundly impressed. Everyone I’ve met, from office staff to the football team, are fervent Hull supporters, and I understand the pain our community has endured. Rest assured, the players and staff feel that weight, and it will undeniably drive us as we move forward into the next season.”