Brian Noble returns to Bradford Bulls as head coach

Brian Noble has been appointed head coach at Rugby League club Bradford Bulls, alongside the newly promoted first team coach, Lee Greenwood, for 2025.

Noble, known as “Nobby”, has had a previous stint as head coach at the club from 2000 to 2006. He guided the Bulls to two Minor Premiership titles, victory in three Grand Finals in 2001, 2003 and 2005, victory in the Challenge Cup in 2003 and to three World Club Championships in 2002, 2004 and 2006.

Club CEO Jason Hirst said the club, which currently competes in the Championship, the second tier of British rugby league, has the potential to return to the Super League.

Commenting on Noble’s appointment, he added: “Brian is undoubtedly and obviously the main link back from the present to our new millennium glory period, where we won every top competition the sport had to offer.

“That period of success was built on the back of the rebirth of Bradford Northern, as the Bradford Bulls in 1996 and the subsequent razzamatazz and frenzy of ‘Bullmania.’

“While I’m not suggesting we’re on the cusp of an immediate return to 10,000 plus attendances or Super League titles, I do 100% believe that a similar type of buzz and opportunity is presenting itself, here, right now, so it’s important we grasp and embrace it in numbers.

“The feelgood factor has been built on the back of two third place finishes, these last two seasons and the exciting, powerful, strength in depth squad we’re assembling for 2025.

“All that added to our greatly improved commercial and financial success over the same time period means that we’ve never been better placed to achieve on-field success since our glory years in Super League.”

The club has also confirmed today that its season ticket sales are up 171% on the corresponding period last year.

Hirst said that as well as existing season ticket holders, many “lapsed” fans are returning and buying season tickets.

He said: “Together, in numbers, we can and will, through our hard work, determination and aspirations return the club to its’ former Super League standing, one firm step at a time.

“The crucially important next step is to have a highly successful on-field season in 2025, with the team playing in front of significantly increased, as well as highly enthused and supportive fans, who once again have a club and team to fully believe in and follow.”