Jim Challinor

Who was Jim Challinor?

James "Jim" P. Challinor was an English professional Rugby League World Cup winning footballer of the 1950s and '60s, and coach of the 1960s and '70s. He played at representative level for Great Britain, and at club level for Warrington, and Barrow, as a Wing, or Centre, i.e. number 2 or 5, or, 3 or 4, and at representative level coached for Great Britain, and at club level for Barrow, and St. Helens.

Making his debut for Warrington in 1952, Challinor initially played on the Wing, but later moved into the Centres. He was a member of the Warrington side that won the famous Odsal Stadium replay of the 1953–54 Northern Rugby Football League season's Challenge Cup final against Halifax, scoring the match's first try. He made 282 appearance for Warrington, scoring 135 tries, kicking 2 goals for 409 points. Challinor also played in the 1960 Rugby League World Cup, helping Great Britain to victory.

In 1963 Challinor moved to Barrow. he led them to the 1966-67 Northern Rugby Football League season's Challenge Cup final at Wembley in as player-coach, losing 17-12 to Featherstone Rovers.

Later Challinor coached Great Britain to victory in the 1972 Rugby League World Cup in France. He was coach of the Lions on their 1974 tour as well.