Culture-changer Asiata has recipe for success at Hull FC

In the midst of a club rebuild, Hull FC needed a culture changer. Step up, John Asiata. The signing of Asiata was more about the rugby league player. For sure, the shape and composure he brings from loose forward are well-known, but it's what came beyond those on-field talents that was just as important.

- By DAN TOMLINSON

The vice captain of the club, the 31-year-old, along with a key core of experienced players, has helped shape the team dynamics, raising standards and professionalism, ensuring responsibility, enforcing accountability, and all in all, making sure the environment is positive and filled with good energy

For Asiata, the leader the club desired, it's those dynamics that define winning teams. And winning teams are what Asiata has been a part of. He was in the North Queensland Cowboys' 2015 NRL Premiership side.

He also helped Leigh gain promotion to Super League before their Leopards rebrand, winning the Challenge Cup in 2023. He knows what it takes. And while Hull aren't at that level yet, in Asiata's view, they are on the right track.

"It was everything I expected and more," Asiata, speaking to the Mail, said on the club's turnaround in 2025. "We just missed out on the playoffs, but there was a lot more that we did as a squad and as a club that exceeded expectations.