Leeds Beckett alumnus Kevin Sinfield to receive knighthood

Leeds Beckett University alumnus, Honorary Doctor and Sport Hall of Fame inductee Kevin Sinfield will receive a knighthood after being named in the King’s Birthday Honours.

Kevin, one of the most respected figures in British sport, has been recognised in the honours list and will become Sir Kevin Sinfield following his formal investiture for services to Rugby League, Rugby Union and the MND Community 

A longstanding member of the Leeds Beckett community, Kevin graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Sport & Exercise Science in 2008 before returning to complete an MA in Sport Business in 2015. In 2019, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Sports Science by the University in recognition of his outstanding contribution to sport.

Kevin enjoyed an illustrious playing career with Leeds Rhinos, captaining the club to seven Super League titles, two Challenge Cup victories and three World Club Challenge successes. He represented both England and Great Britain and remains one of the most decorated players in rugby league history.

Following his retirement from playing, Kevin moved into leadership and coaching roles across rugby league and rugby union, including positions with Leeds Rhinos, Leicester Tigers and England Rugby.

In recent years, Kevin has become widely admired for his extraordinary fundraising efforts in support of the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) community. Inspired by his friendship with former Leeds Rhinos teammate and fellow Leeds Beckett alumnus Rob Burrow CBE, Kevin has undertaken a series of endurance challenges which have raised millions of pounds for MND charities, research and support services.

Leeds Beckett has proudly supported a number of these initiatives, including hosting events at its Headingley Campus and working alongside Kevin, the Burrow family and Leeds Rhinos to raise awareness and support for the MND community.

Kevin was also one of the inaugural inductees into the Leeds Beckett University Sport Hall of Fame in recognition of his exceptional achievements, leadership and impact both within and beyond sport.

The Leeds Beckett community congratulates Kevin on this richly deserved honour.