Jon Callard returns to Leeds Tykes as head coach

By Dave Craven
Published 17th Nov 2021, 17:00 BST
Updated 17th Nov 2021, 20:27 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now
Former England full-back Jon Callard has returned to Leeds Tykes as head coach – almost 20 years after initially taking on the role.

He will link up once more with director of rugby Phil Davies after they helped preside over the most successful period in the club’s history.

Callard, 55, was first-team coach from 2002 until 2005, the year Leeds lifted the Powergen Cup with a shock win over his former club Bath at Twickenham.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He was also involved as they ventured into the Heineken Cup and produced a number of notable Premiership scalps.

TYKES RETURN: Jon Callard has been appointed Leeds Tykes head coach. Picture: Jan Kruger/Getty Images.TYKES RETURN: Jon Callard has been appointed Leeds Tykes head coach. Picture: Jan Kruger/Getty Images.
TYKES RETURN: Jon Callard has been appointed Leeds Tykes head coach. Picture: Jan Kruger/Getty Images.

Leeds, of course, are now operating in National One – the domestic competition’s third tier – with Davies having returned to help a rebuild in January last year following the financial collapse of Yorkshire Carnegie.

Although clearly competitive, Tykes have won just two of their opening nine games this season.

A statement read: “As a club we are very ambitious and strengthening our coaching team has been a major focus. This will ensure that we keep on improving.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Jon’s primary focus in the first instance will be to assess our playing style and make the small adjustments needed to improve consistency in our performances.”

PARTNERSHIP: Leeds Tykes director of rugby Phil Davies will work closely with Jon Callard. Picture: Tony Johnson.PARTNERSHIP: Leeds Tykes director of rugby Phil Davies will work closely with Jon Callard. Picture: Tony Johnson.
PARTNERSHIP: Leeds Tykes director of rugby Phil Davies will work closely with Jon Callard. Picture: Tony Johnson.

Callard, who has previously worked as England Under 21s and England Saxons coach as well as for the RFU’s National Academy, won five caps for his country and was renowned for his goalkicking expertise.

‘I am honoured to take on the role of head coach at the Tykes in what is a very exciting time for the club,” he said.

“So many people have worked so hard to get the club back up and running and I am proud that I match their aspirations.