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Kevin Sinfield

Kevin Sinfield stood outside on campus on a sunny day wearing graduation cap and gown.

Presentation address by Ella Williams:

Chancellor, 

Kevin Sinfield’s name is synonymous with excellence, dedication, and resilience. As a legendary rugby league player, Kevin’s career with the Leeds Rhinos spanned over two decades, during which he led his team to numerous victories and accolades, including seven Super League titles and two Challenge Cups. He holds the record for the highest points-scorer in Super League history. Additionally, with 26 caps for England, which he captained, and 14 tests for Great Britain, Kevin has earned a place among the greatest players in the history of the sport.

Since retiring from professional rugby, Kevin has continued to contribute his expertise, energy and experience through coaching and mentoring the next generation of talented players, currently as a coach for the England Senior Men’s team.

However, it is not only Kevin’s athletic prowess and sporting excellence that sets him apart. His leadership extends beyond the rugby field, embodying the principles of sportsmanship, compassion and integrity - values which we honour here at the University of Leeds. Kevin’s dedication to his teammates, his sport, and his community is unwavering and has inspired countless individuals to pursue their passions within Yorkshire and beyond.

Kevin Sinfield’s impact reaches far beyond the boundaries of rugby. In recent years, he has become a beacon of hope and humanity through his extraordinary fundraising efforts for motor neurone disease research. Motivated by the diagnosis of his close friend and former teammate, Rob Burrow, Kevin embarked on a series of gruelling endurance challenges, including running seven ultra marathons in seven days, raising millions of pounds for MND charities.

His exceptional service to the MND community was recognised through the award of a CBE in the 2023 New Years Honours, building on the previous award of an OBE in 2021 for his fundraising efforts, and an MBE in 2014 for services to Rugby League.

His tireless efforts have not only provided crucial financial support for research but have also raised awareness and brought renewed hope to those affected by this devastating disease. And if they say a picture is worth a thousand words, who can forget the image of Kevin carrying Rob across the finishing line in last year’s Leeds Marathon at Headingley Stadium.

Kevin’s remarkable achievements and contributions exemplify the essence of what it means to be a true leader. His commitment to making a difference in the lives of others, his resilience in the face of adversity, and his steadfast dedication to his community are truly inspirational.

Chancellor, I am honoured to present to you for the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, Kevin Sinfield.