Kenneth Foulkes Obituary

Kenneth Foulkes, an English professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1960s for Castleford and Hull F.C. has died at age 78. His death was announced today (August 27, 2022).

Foulkes began his career at Castleford in the early 60s, close to his birthplace of Pontefract.

While at Castleford, he was understuding the high-ranking half-back pairing of Alan Hardisty and Keith Hepworth.

However, due to lack of regular playing time, he followed a career path similar to that of Roger Millward, heading east to the city of Hull.

Hull’s decision to sign Foulkes was because they needed someone to step into the shoes of the aging half Tommy Finn.

Foulkes made his club debut against Leigh at the Boulevard in October 1964. He scored on his debut.

Foulkes proved to be an excellent acquisition for the Black & Whites, and despite his small stature standing at just 5ft4in, he certainly pulled no punches, irrespective of how big the opposition forwards were.

Foulkes made his final appearance Hull F.C. against Blackpool Borough in March 1977. Hull won the game 22-13, leading to them securing the 1976-77 Second Division Championship.

After retiring, Foulkes was appointed as Hull’s assistant coach in 1985, working alongside legendary head coach Arthur Bunting in 1985.

Foulkes took over the reigns following Bunting’s departure and guided the club through the second-half of the 1985/86 campaign.