With less than two weeks to go before they begin their 2026 campaign, Championship side Keighley Cougars have parted ways with their head coach.
Alan Kilshaw has been in the role since March 2025, after he was brought in to take over from former Super League centre Jake Webster.
After losing out in the League One promotion final to Hunslet in 2024, Keighley endured an awful start to the third tier in 2025, and whilst results improved under Kilshaw, he could only guide them to ninth place in the third tier.
A former boss at Hunslet, Swinton and Rochdale, the 43-year-old departed the club at his own request, leaving assistant boss Dan Burton to take the reigns.
Burton is a former coach of the Leeds Rhinos academy and reserves, but the interim role will be his first at a senior level.
The Cougars have made a number of signings this off-season, including the likes of former Warrington youngster Lucas Green and Leeds youth product Dylan Proud.
Their competitive season will begin on January 18, where they will host Goole Vikings at Cougar Park. At the time of the announcement, it means that the side have been left with the shock exit just 13 days before that game.
In what is news that will no doubt rock the club and it’s fanbase, a statement by the club posted on Monday evening read:
“Keighley Cougars can today confirm that Head Coach Alan Kilshaw has been released from his role as head coach following his request. Alan has been presented with a significant opportunity away from the club that he wishes to pursue.”
“Alan departs Cougar Park having made a significant impact during his time at the club, helping to establish strong foundations both on and off the field. The club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Alan for the exceptional job he has done and for his commitment, professionalism, and leadership throughout his tenure.”
Commenting on his departure, Kilshaw added: “This wasn’t an easy decision for me to make, but I feel the club is in a really good place.
“With Ryan and Kaue now more hands-on, there’s a strong structure in place, and a lot of good work has been done throughout pre-season which I’m confident will be evident in the performances this season. It’s been a privilege to coach this group of players and work with the staff, and I’m excited to watch how the next generation of Cougars continue to develop.
“I’d like to thank everyone at the club for the opportunity and support during my time here and wish the club nothing but success moving forward.”
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Important announcement from Keighley Cougars.
Departure of Head Coach Alan Kilshaw
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— Keighley Cougars (@Cougarmania) January 5, 2026
