This morning, Leeds Rhinos have convened a press conference to unveil their new Sporting Director as part of the club’s efforts to progress forward.
Leeds Rhinos have confirmed the scheduling of the press conference to announce their new Sporting Director, set to take place at 11 am at Headingley. While the club has not disclosed the identity of the appointee, there is widespread anticipation that Ian Blease from Salford Red Devils will assume the role. The statement released by Leeds Rhinos outlines what will be unveiled during the press conference without revealing the individual’s name.
The official statement from Leeds Rhinos reads: “Leeds Rhinos will host an in-person press conference in the Howard Suite at AMT Headingley today, Monday 10th June, at 11 am to announce the club’s new Sporting Director, who will lead the Rugby department moving forward.”
Over the weekend, Rugby League Live reported that Salford’s Ian Blease would assume the role, marking the conclusion of his tenure with the Red Devils, during which he played a pivotal role in transforming them into one of Super League’s most captivating teams.
Leeds Rhinos are set to unveil their new Sporting Director.
Credit: Imago Images
Last month, Leeds Rhinos confirmed their intention to appoint a Sporting Director, with club Chief Executive Gary Hetherington making the announcement.
The statement from Leeds Rhinos last month read: “Leeds Rhinos have revealed a major restructuring of the club’s performance department with plans to appoint a new Sporting Director to lead the Rugby department.”
In today’s announcement, the importance of the Sporting Director role was reiterated, with Leeds Rhinos stating: “The Sporting Director will provide strategic direction, leadership, and oversight of the rugby department at Leeds Rhinos as a member of the club’s Board of Directors. The new wide-ranging role will oversee all age grades at the club along with support for the Leeds Rhinos Foundation’s RL Development Plan.”
The Sporting Director will assume responsibility for the Rugby League operation, offering leadership to the coaching and playing staff in alignment with the club’s strategy and vision. This entails managing salary cap compliance, overseeing player and staff recruitment and retention, and supervising the youth development and medical departments.
Ian Blease is anticipated to assume the new role.
Credit: Imago Images
Ian Blease appears to be the favored candidate for the role, as previously anticipated since the announcement in May. Blease has played a pivotal role in the transformation of Salford Red Devils, guiding them to Old Trafford and establishing them as one of the most captivating teams in Super League despite operating on a tight budget.
Teaming Blease with the ample resources at Leeds Rhinos could potentially revolutionize the club’s fortunes. Leeds Rhinos missed the playoffs last season and are at risk of doing so again in 2024, potentially at the expense of Blease’s Salford.
If Blease is indeed announced in just over an hour, it will likely prompt speculation about the future of Paul Rowley, who previously declined the Hull FC job earlier this year.