Next Home Game : YCK vs Sheffield Eagles Thurs 10th May 2012 K.O 7.30pm
If you wish to make a donation to the Foundation then please follow the simple steps from the link below. Thank-you
Latest News
Sainsbury's York Charity Partner 2011-2012
York City Knights Foundation have been Sainsbury’s charity of the year 2011-2012 working in partnership to raise money for the Foundation so far we have raised over £6000.
The funds were raised by York City Knights Foundation and Sainsbury’s Monks Cross, to generate donations a charity bookstall, collection tins, cake stalls, raffle, tombola, flower wrapping, bag packing, Knights calendar sales and funding events were held.
York City Knights Foundation Manager, Emma Scaling said, “I would like to thank all the Sainsbury’s staff and customers at Monks Cross, York and York City Knights fans for their continued support throughout the year. The money raised will help to sustain the Foundation’s sports and physical activity community program, which reaches out to schools and the community in York and North Yorkshire.
The funds were raised by York City Knights Foundation and Sainsbury’s Monks Cross, to generate donations a charity bookstall, collection tins, cake stalls, raffle, tombola, flower wrapping, bag packing, Knights calendar sales and funding events were held.
York City Knights Foundation Manager, Emma Scaling said, “I would like to thank all the Sainsbury’s staff and customers at Monks Cross, York and York City Knights fans for their continued support throughout the year. The money raised will help to sustain the Foundation’s sports and physical activity community program, which reaches out to schools and the community in York and North Yorkshire.
New Partnerships Developed
Knights have also made some more new partnerships with Roko York, York St John’s and York College where Touch Rugby will delivered to help people become more aware of the sport. Keep following our news updates for new dates for touch rugby coming to you soon.
Knights Foundation Charity Partner CORE Fitness Education
York City Knights Foundation have teamed up with CORE Fitness Education. They are an established fitness industry training provider running internationally recognised qualifications and courses.
Become a Personal trainer or Group exercise instructor or choose from the many other courses on offer. Courses running in Hull and York, interest free credit available. Visit: www.corefitnesseducation.co.uk to learn more.
Become a Personal trainer or Group exercise instructor or choose from the many other courses on offer. Courses running in Hull and York, interest free credit available. Visit: www.corefitnesseducation.co.uk to learn more.
Volunteer Sports Programme
The York Knights Foundation are pleased to announce that they are going to be delivering a new project in partnership with Comic Relief called the Knights Sports Volunteering Programme. Knights Head Coach, Chris Thorman will be going out into Secondary Schools in York to support youngsters who want to get involved in sport through volunteering and providing education and advice on how to become a sports volunteer.
Foundation Manager Emma Scaling said,
'The Foundation is very please to have received funding from Comic Relief to help deliver a new sports volunteering programme in York. Volunteers are vital to the sports industry without a volunteer workforce, events simply wouldn't happen. It should be natural for young people to volunteer and natural for organisations to offer young people the opportunity to volunteer, or support them in doing so and thats exactly what the Knights are aiming to achieve."
For more information please contact Emma Scaling on 01904 767404 or email emma@ycknights.co.uk.
Foundation Manager Emma Scaling said,
'The Foundation is very please to have received funding from Comic Relief to help deliver a new sports volunteering programme in York. Volunteers are vital to the sports industry without a volunteer workforce, events simply wouldn't happen. It should be natural for young people to volunteer and natural for organisations to offer young people the opportunity to volunteer, or support them in doing so and thats exactly what the Knights are aiming to achieve."
For more information please contact Emma Scaling on 01904 767404 or email emma@ycknights.co.uk.
New Partner with Knights
York City Knights are pleased to announce that they have teamed up with Tesco, York. We will be promoting offers to all store customers, staff and general public. To make sure you don’t miss out on fantastic family deals and ticket offers with the Knights visit your local store York to find out more or visit www.yorkcityknights.co.uk
York Knights Foundation Manager, Emma Scaling said,
‘We are hoping that the new partnership with Tesco, York will help Knights to develop and build on our current fan base and provide opportunities for the public to take advantage of match day experiences with the Knights.’
Please keep an eye out for instore promotions coming soon to your local store.
York Knights Foundation Manager, Emma Scaling said,
‘We are hoping that the new partnership with Tesco, York will help Knights to develop and build on our current fan base and provide opportunities for the public to take advantage of match day experiences with the Knights.’
Please keep an eye out for instore promotions coming soon to your local store.
Recruiting Now
York City Knights are looking to recruit individuals on placement to gain work experience with the club and Foundation. We are looking for people who are aged 18 and over and are not currently in full or part time employment or education. The course requires the individual to dedicate 20 hours per week for three months. For every successful candidate who passes the placement they will receive a level one coaching course fully paid for. This opportunity will be highly advantageous for individuals looking to gain some work experience, improve their skills and knowledge of the leisure industry and gain qualifications to be able to coach youngsters in sport. For more information please contact Emma Scaling on 01904 767404 or email emma@ycknights.co.uk
Knights Community Dance Project
The York Knights Foundation is set to deliver a new dance project in the York Schools in partnership with the Co- operative Membership Fund. The programme is set to help youngsters take part in regular dance and physical activity. From this project the Knights will sustain the programme by setting up a Knights dance club to provide a pathway for continued participation. The youngsters taking part in the project will be invited to showcase their skills and dance routines at the live Knights home games.
For more information contact Emma Scaling on 01904 767404 or email emma@ycknights.co.uk.
For more information contact Emma Scaling on 01904 767404 or email emma@ycknights.co.uk.
Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All York 10k
Run with the Knights at the York 10k on Sunday 5th August 2012 at 9am from York Racecourse.
York Knights have teamed up with Run For All, York 10K to help raise money for York City Knights Foundation and St Leonards Hospice. In order to gain free entry with the York City Knights Foundation you must raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship. If you raise:
York City Knights Foundation will be hosting a free after party including food for all runners, family and friends at Bar 13, Huntington Stadium, York, YO32 9JS, after the event has taken place on Sunday 5th August 2012 from 12 noon.
York Knights have teamed up with Run For All, York 10K to help raise money for York City Knights Foundation and St Leonards Hospice. In order to gain free entry with the York City Knights Foundation you must raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship. If you raise:
- £50 or more you receive: 1 Adult ticket to watch Knights v Hunslet Hawks on Sun 2nd September 2012.
- £100 or more you receive: 2 Adult tickets to watch Knights v Hunslet Hawks with hospitality on Sun 2nd September 2012.
- £150 or more you receive: 2 Adult tickets to watch Knights v Hunslet Hawks with hospitality on Sun 2nd September 2012 & a Knights signed shirt.
- £300 or more you receive: 1 Adult season ticket for 2013, a signed shirt & 2 adult ground tickets to watch Knights v Hunslet Hawks on Sun 2nd September 2012 with hospitality.
York City Knights Foundation will be hosting a free after party including food for all runners, family and friends at Bar 13, Huntington Stadium, York, YO32 9JS, after the event has taken place on Sunday 5th August 2012 from 12 noon.
Knights Encourage Reading and Writing Skills
The kids with Jack
York City Knights Community Development officer and first team player Jack Stearman was asked to go into Sand Hutton school by their staff in order to help encourage young boys in the school to read and write and why this is important in life. National Statistics showed that Young Boys were less reluctant to read in school, so the staff (all of which are female) were asked to bring in Sports stars, Dads as well as young ambassadors from local Secondary Schools.
Jack has been helping 6 young boys organise the 'Small Schools Tag Rugby Tournament,' and made them realise how much reading and writing is important in planning such an event.
Jack has had the boys write letters to schools inviting them to the tournament, local businesses for sponsorship and to write out the rules and agenda for the tournament itself. The boys have also sent out e-mails to people and it has been all their own work.
One of the boys commented "It has given us the confidence to do what we need to do when we are older, like talking on the telephone, e-mailing and writing letters to people we don't know."
Jack stated "It is fantastic that I can help encourage the children to learn the key skills that are necessary in life, and in professions such as mine. All the boys have done a great job throughout and I wish them luck, not only in the running of the tournament, but also in their futures."
The tournament takes place on Thursday 8th March at 1.15pm until 4pm, please come along and support the event. Knights head Coach Chris Thorman will be in attendance, refereeing the matches, there will also be a raffle to help raise funds for the school. The York City Knights will also be offering their support by giving each child that takes part a ticket for an upcoming home fixture.
Jack has been helping 6 young boys organise the 'Small Schools Tag Rugby Tournament,' and made them realise how much reading and writing is important in planning such an event.
Jack has had the boys write letters to schools inviting them to the tournament, local businesses for sponsorship and to write out the rules and agenda for the tournament itself. The boys have also sent out e-mails to people and it has been all their own work.
One of the boys commented "It has given us the confidence to do what we need to do when we are older, like talking on the telephone, e-mailing and writing letters to people we don't know."
Jack stated "It is fantastic that I can help encourage the children to learn the key skills that are necessary in life, and in professions such as mine. All the boys have done a great job throughout and I wish them luck, not only in the running of the tournament, but also in their futures."
The tournament takes place on Thursday 8th March at 1.15pm until 4pm, please come along and support the event. Knights head Coach Chris Thorman will be in attendance, refereeing the matches, there will also be a raffle to help raise funds for the school. The York City Knights will also be offering their support by giving each child that takes part a ticket for an upcoming home fixture.
Under 18s Championship Player Development Pathway
Under 18s payer, recruited from Heworth Josh Poulter.
The York City Knights are pleased to announce that following on from last years successful under 18s programme, they will be running one this year. The team, who will be coached by Knights first team player James Ford and assisted by former Leeds scholarship and Featherstone Rovers player Matt Isherwood as well as North Yorkshire Service Area co-ordinator Nick Settle, will form a formidable coaching set up, who all add different expertise into the equation.
The idea of the pathway programme, is all about player development, to get these players ready for the next stage of their Rugby league pathway, in this instance York Knights first team contracts. There will be a series of 6 games throughout the year, but the main focus being on the players commitment, dedication and performance in training, in trying to better themselves.
Head Coach Ford said of the programme; " We are looking to prepare these players the best we can for first team commitments in the following seasons. They will get the best possible coaching and advice that we can give them, but its up to them to take the next steps."
If you would like to sponsor the Under 18s, or require any more information then please contact Jack on jack@ycknights.co.uk or 01904 767404.
The idea of the pathway programme, is all about player development, to get these players ready for the next stage of their Rugby league pathway, in this instance York Knights first team contracts. There will be a series of 6 games throughout the year, but the main focus being on the players commitment, dedication and performance in training, in trying to better themselves.
Head Coach Ford said of the programme; " We are looking to prepare these players the best we can for first team commitments in the following seasons. They will get the best possible coaching and advice that we can give them, but its up to them to take the next steps."
If you would like to sponsor the Under 18s, or require any more information then please contact Jack on jack@ycknights.co.uk or 01904 767404.
Coach the Coaches proves a huge success!
York Knights Head Coach Chris Thorman delivered a coaching masterclass to amateur coaches from across the region at Huntington Stadium. This is going to be a regular occurrence due to the success of the first two workshops.
The idea behind the workshops is to increase the standard of coaching in North Yorkshire, thus breeding young talent to the levels that are expected to be part of the Knights playing team, at all age groups.
Coaches from clubs, schools and universities throughout the region were taught about the importance of warm up, and tackle technique, for one hour. We hope that these coaches are able to take these good practices back to other coaches in their club.
Each coach that participated in the first Coach the Coaches workshop received a free season ticket as a thank-you for taking the Knights up on the workshop. The workshop is free of charge, and everyone is welcome. If you would like more information on the workshops then please contact Jack Stearman on jack@ycknights.co.uk or 01904 767404.
The idea behind the workshops is to increase the standard of coaching in North Yorkshire, thus breeding young talent to the levels that are expected to be part of the Knights playing team, at all age groups.
Coaches from clubs, schools and universities throughout the region were taught about the importance of warm up, and tackle technique, for one hour. We hope that these coaches are able to take these good practices back to other coaches in their club.
Each coach that participated in the first Coach the Coaches workshop received a free season ticket as a thank-you for taking the Knights up on the workshop. The workshop is free of charge, and everyone is welcome. If you would like more information on the workshops then please contact Jack Stearman on jack@ycknights.co.uk or 01904 767404.
Touch Rugby Continues
Touch Rugby has commenced in the new year following on from last years success. Touch Rugby is a non contact, quick version of Rugby League and anyone can play of any ability, gender as long as they are over 16. It is a fun, action packed game made for everyone.
It takes place on Huntington School astroturf every Wednesday from 6pm-7pm and is lead by Jack Stearman. Each session costs £3 however you can bulk buy 10 sessions from £25.
It takes place on Huntington School astroturf every Wednesday from 6pm-7pm and is lead by Jack Stearman. Each session costs £3 however you can bulk buy 10 sessions from £25.
Girls Rugby hits off in York
Contact Rugby League in York amongst girls is really hitting off after York Knights have been working hard in schools. As reported, last year, the first school game took place in York between Year 9s at Canon Lee and Huntington School. Jack Stearman has progressively been entering schools in order to promote the game to the girls. Burnholme school took up the offer, and the school, which only had 60 children in the whole of their year 11, has done well for 12 girls to turn up regularly to training.
Ash Adkins, who has helped promote rugby league to the girls in the school said " Its great for the girls to be offered this opportunity to be coached by Jack, the girls really enjoy the game and cannot wait to start playing games."
All Saints have jumped on the initiative and are eager also to carry this on. The girls at first were not keen on the idea of playing such a physical game, but the 16 that turn up regularly each week, have given it a go and are almost ready for that competitive game.
Jack Stearman said: "Its fantastic for the sport to be spreading across the board, they have all given it a go, and i cannot fault their efforts."
Jack is trying to organise a curtain raiser for Burnholme and All Saints, prior to the Knights first team game vs Gateshead on Sunday 26th February. If you know any schools, or any girls that would be interested in playing rugby in or outside of school, then please get them to contact Jack on 01904 767404 or jack@ycknights.co.uk
Ash Adkins, who has helped promote rugby league to the girls in the school said " Its great for the girls to be offered this opportunity to be coached by Jack, the girls really enjoy the game and cannot wait to start playing games."
All Saints have jumped on the initiative and are eager also to carry this on. The girls at first were not keen on the idea of playing such a physical game, but the 16 that turn up regularly each week, have given it a go and are almost ready for that competitive game.
Jack Stearman said: "Its fantastic for the sport to be spreading across the board, they have all given it a go, and i cannot fault their efforts."
Jack is trying to organise a curtain raiser for Burnholme and All Saints, prior to the Knights first team game vs Gateshead on Sunday 26th February. If you know any schools, or any girls that would be interested in playing rugby in or outside of school, then please get them to contact Jack on 01904 767404 or jack@ycknights.co.uk
Knighted with a Healthy Heart Hits Barmby Moor
York City Knights Development Manager Emma Scaling, took Knights player Jack Stearman and Player Coach Chris Thorman, along with Norris the Knight to Barmby Moor primary school, for a fun action packed learning morning for the children. Knighted with a Healthy Heart is a project run by the York City Knights, in conjunction with Heart Research UK in order to teach youngsters around North Yorkshire about Heart Disease, which is Englands biggest killer each year. Research suggests that the main cause of Heart Disease is 'not living a healthy lifestyle' so it is important for children to understand how important their diet and exercise is.
Norris helped lift the spirits of the children on a freezing cold morning in the assembly, while Jack and Chris took a practical session with each class throughout the morning.
One child said "I had so much fun this morning, meeting Chris was awesome and seeing Norris do some press ups was funny"
If you would like more details on the Heart Research project, which runs until the Easter Half Term, then please contact Jack on jack@ycknights.co.uk or 01904 767404
Norris helped lift the spirits of the children on a freezing cold morning in the assembly, while Jack and Chris took a practical session with each class throughout the morning.
One child said "I had so much fun this morning, meeting Chris was awesome and seeing Norris do some press ups was funny"
If you would like more details on the Heart Research project, which runs until the Easter Half Term, then please contact Jack on jack@ycknights.co.uk or 01904 767404
York City Knights Foundation Players Calendar
York City Knights players have stripped their kit off for the 2012 calendar to raise money for York City Knights Foundation. The calendars are available from Sainsbury's, Monks Cross, Photo Shop department or can be ordered from the Knights office, Roland Court for £13.00!
Even if you just visit for a peek at the calendars, its well worth it for a giggle to two!!!!!!
Even if you just visit for a peek at the calendars, its well worth it for a giggle to two!!!!!!
Halloween Fundraiser and Cake Stall
On Sunday the 30th November Sainsbury's, Monks Cross helped to raise funds for the York City Knights Foundation. There were hundreds of cakes, buns, flap jacks and halloween treats to be had. The stall was a huge success and all the cakes looked delicious.
The staff as Sainbury's also did a pumpkin carving competition and Emma one of the Knights Development staff choose the three best pumpkins. All the money raised will help to go towards funding the sports development department and buy some new equipment for our coaching sessions in schools.
The staff as Sainbury's also did a pumpkin carving competition and Emma one of the Knights Development staff choose the three best pumpkins. All the money raised will help to go towards funding the sports development department and buy some new equipment for our coaching sessions in schools.
Foundation Fundraising with Sainsbury's Monks Cross, York
York City Knights Foundation, are working with Sainsbury's supermarket, York. As you may be aware, we are their charity of the year 2012. We are working together in partnership to help raise funds for the excellent work done by the York City Knights community team.
Our next charity event is a charity book stall, if anyone has any unwanted books that they could donate to the charity, please take them to the Roland Court office or Sainsbury's Monks Cross.
Finally, if there are any keen cake bakers out there we will also be running a charity cake stall on Sunday 30th October 2011 at Sainsbury's Monks Cross. If anyone would be interested in baking some cakes to support the cause, that would be much appreciated. You can drop your cakes off at the store on the day and leave them with customer services.
Our next charity event is a charity book stall, if anyone has any unwanted books that they could donate to the charity, please take them to the Roland Court office or Sainsbury's Monks Cross.
Finally, if there are any keen cake bakers out there we will also be running a charity cake stall on Sunday 30th October 2011 at Sainsbury's Monks Cross. If anyone would be interested in baking some cakes to support the cause, that would be much appreciated. You can drop your cakes off at the store on the day and leave them with customer services.
York Holiday Club Fun Summer 2011
Holiday Club Fun Summer 2011 at Heworth Rugby Club, York.
Dates & Times
Club 1 - Tues 26th, Wed 27th, Thurs 28th & Fri 29th July 2011 9am - 4pm *
Club 2 - Tues 23rd, Wed 24th, Thurs 25th & Fri 28th August 2011 9am - 4pm *
Prices:
£18 per day of £60 for four days.
To secure a booking call the Knights office on: 01904 767404
Dates & Times
Club 1 - Tues 26th, Wed 27th, Thurs 28th & Fri 29th July 2011 9am - 4pm *
Club 2 - Tues 23rd, Wed 24th, Thurs 25th & Fri 28th August 2011 9am - 4pm *
Prices:
£18 per day of £60 for four days.
To secure a booking call the Knights office on: 01904 767404
Active Kids Vouchers Collected:
The York City Knights are once again working along Sainsbury's to collect Active Kids Vouchers for the 2011 term. Between the dates of 9th Feb and 31st May People will be able to collect vouchers from any Sainsbury's stored, petrol stations and with online groceries from these dates. A box will be placed in the club Shop on match days, which is situated in Box one. Alternatively you could drop them off at the Knights office at Roland Court, Huntington Road, York, Or for more information please contact Jack Stearman on 01904 767404.
The Knights managed to purchase balls, cones and bibs to help with their great community development work within schools and this year we are looking to increase the number of vouchers received so that the great work can continue.
The Knights managed to purchase balls, cones and bibs to help with their great community development work within schools and this year we are looking to increase the number of vouchers received so that the great work can continue.
RUGGERCISE FITNESS CLASSES COME TO YORK
Kick start your weight loss and tone your whole body with Ruggercise.
This new concept of fitness training adapts rugby related training drills to burn fat, improve muscle tone and increase fitness.
Sessions will be held weekly as follows:
Monday 7th March 2011 - York High School - 6.30 - 7.30pm
Tuesdays 8th March 2011 - Burnholme Community College - 6.30 - 7.30pm
£2.00 per session or receive a 10% discount when you book the full course.
For more information please contact Emma Sellers on:
01904 767404 or email
emma@ycknights.co.uk
This new concept of fitness training adapts rugby related training drills to burn fat, improve muscle tone and increase fitness.
Sessions will be held weekly as follows:
Monday 7th March 2011 - York High School - 6.30 - 7.30pm
Tuesdays 8th March 2011 - Burnholme Community College - 6.30 - 7.30pm
£2.00 per session or receive a 10% discount when you book the full course.
For more information please contact Emma Sellers on:
01904 767404 or email
emma@ycknights.co.uk
York City Knights Under 18s Trial
Pictured are some of the players from last seasons successful Under 16s scholarship, who went to trial out for the new Under 18s Academy that the york City Knights will be running this year. Over 40 children from around North Yorkshire, Wetherby and Hull participated in the trial, which was watched by first team players Jack Stearman and Chris Thorman, North Yorkshire Service Area Co-ordinator Nick Settle, Development Coach Adam Prentis and Under 18s Assistant Paul Field.
Jack Stearman said, of the trial; "It was great to see all the players there, definately gives us some selection headaches for the 24 Man Squad. The lads will be playing four games in the summer against some good opposition and gives them the opportunity to fight for a place in the reserve team, or maybe even first team, next year."
Hopefully we can have another successful season for the academy and maybe someone will be rewarded with a first team contract for the 2012 season, like Kris Brining, Ash Winstanley and Tom Holmes.
Jack Stearman said, of the trial; "It was great to see all the players there, definately gives us some selection headaches for the 24 Man Squad. The lads will be playing four games in the summer against some good opposition and gives them the opportunity to fight for a place in the reserve team, or maybe even first team, next year."
Hopefully we can have another successful season for the academy and maybe someone will be rewarded with a first team contract for the 2012 season, like Kris Brining, Ash Winstanley and Tom Holmes.
Touch Rugby League for all back on in York
Due to the success of last years touch rugby league sessions City of York Council are continuing at Energise on Thursday 20 January at 6.30 to 7.30pm, each session will cost £3 or £25 for the 10 sessions a £5 saving We are also starting another touch rugby session on Wednesday 2nd February at 6.00 to 7.00 pm. Venue: Huntington Secondary School. These will last for 8 weeks, each session will cost £3 or £20 for the 8 sessions a £4 saving. Will Saville from City of York Council said: " I was really impressed with the people we were able to attract. Most had never played rugby before. I was encouraged with the amount of females who got involved. Adam Prentis (York Knights) and Chris Charles (League 4 All Officer) were excellent in their coaching and ensured everybody enjoyed themselves and got the most out of the session. " These sociable sessions will be fun, friendly and great for improving fitness. They will be led by RFL (Rugby Football League) professional coaches, who will take participants through some warm up and coaching before splitting them into teams to play. Men, women, complete beginners and those with an interest in rugby will all be welcome as no previous knowledge or experience of the game is required. Touch rugby is fast, evasive and involves minimal contact. Originally developed in Australia and New Zealand in the 1960's, it has evolved from the sport of rugby league. The tackle of opposing players is replaced by a touch, making it a simple yet exciting game without the fear of getting hurt. The game is now expanding internationally and has its own world cup. For further information or to book your place please contact: Nick Settle, Rugby League Service Area Co-ordinator nicholas.settle@york.gov.uk or Will Saville, City of York Council' s Sports Participation Officer will.saville@york.gov.uk Tel number 01904 553440
Knights Support Women's Rugby Development
York City Knights Foundation has received funding from Sport England to help support their project ‘Ruggercise’ for women.
This new innovative project has been developed by Foundation Manager Emma Sellers, who has a vast knowledge and experience within the sport, health and fitness sector.
The ‘Ruggercise’ project has primarily been designed for women to take part and get involved in fitness through sport as a means to encourage females to participate in Rugby.
Ruggercise involves fun fitness based exercise sessions that incorporate rugby related skills and drills. Ruggercise follows non contact disciplines, which reduces the likelihood of sports injury. The project will provide benefits to; women’s health and fitness and increase self esteem, along with a clear pathway to women's rugby development in York.
The project is due to start in February 2011 if you would like further information please contact the Knights office on 01904 767404 or email emma@ycknights.co.uk to make a booking.
This new innovative project has been developed by Foundation Manager Emma Sellers, who has a vast knowledge and experience within the sport, health and fitness sector.
The ‘Ruggercise’ project has primarily been designed for women to take part and get involved in fitness through sport as a means to encourage females to participate in Rugby.
Ruggercise involves fun fitness based exercise sessions that incorporate rugby related skills and drills. Ruggercise follows non contact disciplines, which reduces the likelihood of sports injury. The project will provide benefits to; women’s health and fitness and increase self esteem, along with a clear pathway to women's rugby development in York.
The project is due to start in February 2011 if you would like further information please contact the Knights office on 01904 767404 or email emma@ycknights.co.uk to make a booking.
Knights to Donate to Higgos's Fund
York City Knights are pleased to announce that 20% of the proceeds from Sundays Paul Higgins memorial match against the Castleford Tigers will be donated to Higgo's 13 A Side Rugby Foundation. To date the Foundation has raised around £10,000 for junior Rugby League in York and North Yorkshire and the Knights are pleased to be able to support the fund. At the match volunteers from the Foundation will be doing a bucket collection and a raffle to raise further funds for the cause. Commenting on the news Knights General Manager and Higgo's 13 A Side Rugby Foundation committee member Ian Wilson said, "We are delighted to be able to support such a fantastic cause. Higgo's 13 A Side Rugby Foundation is extremely important to many of the staff and players at the club, as well as the wider Rugby League community, and we hope that Sundays match will be even more successful than in previous years".
Sundays match kicks off at 3pm at the Huntington Stadium and turnstiles open at 1:30pm. Supporters with tickets can access Bar 13 from 12:30pm via the information point in main reception. Entry to the match is £13 Adults, £10 Concessions (Over 65's & Students with a valid Student card) and £5 U16's. A £2 transfer to seating is payable once inside the ground.
Both Castleford Coach Terry Matterson and Knights Coach Dave Woods are expected to name their squads on Thursday and Friday respectively and and both are set to feature several first team squad members. Both teams will have players with connections to Paul Higgins in Jack Stearman, of the Knights, and Sam Orange of Castleford (former York Acorn A who were coached by Paul in the
North Yorkshire Service Area, Knights Scholarship and Knights Academy (Stearman), and Stearman in particular has extremely fond memories of Paul, "Paul was great to work with and he taught me a lot about the game. I know he will be pleased to see me making my mark in the first team and i will be trying my very best to put in a performance he would be proud off on Sunday".
Sundays match kicks off at 3pm at the Huntington Stadium and turnstiles open at 1:30pm. Supporters with tickets can access Bar 13 from 12:30pm via the information point in main reception. Entry to the match is £13 Adults, £10 Concessions (Over 65's & Students with a valid Student card) and £5 U16's. A £2 transfer to seating is payable once inside the ground.
Both Castleford Coach Terry Matterson and Knights Coach Dave Woods are expected to name their squads on Thursday and Friday respectively and and both are set to feature several first team squad members. Both teams will have players with connections to Paul Higgins in Jack Stearman, of the Knights, and Sam Orange of Castleford (former York Acorn A who were coached by Paul in the
North Yorkshire Service Area, Knights Scholarship and Knights Academy (Stearman), and Stearman in particular has extremely fond memories of Paul, "Paul was great to work with and he taught me a lot about the game. I know he will be pleased to see me making my mark in the first team and i will be trying my very best to put in a performance he would be proud off on Sunday".
Knights - Sing it Loud and Proud
The York City Knights are teaming up with York primary schools to get children involved in a singing challenge. 'Knights Choir Challenge' hopes to engage over 1000 children from York to sing their hearts out to a big crowd at their match against Sheffield Eagles on the 17th March 2011, KO 3 pm. This community event aims to bring sport and singing together to show children and families how diverse sport can be. Sport is not all about competing and this event hopes to emphasise that there is a real need for the public to support local teams. Click here for lyrics. For more information please contact Knights on 01904 767404 or email: emma@ycknights.co.uk
Heart Research UK Pair Up With York City Knights
The York City Knights are pleased to announce that they have once again teamed up with Heart Research UK to deliver a programme within York based primary schools to teach children how to keep their hearts healthy to prevent heart disease, this is thanks to a Healthy Heart Grant of £7000 from Yorkshire’s own national heart charity, Heart Research UK.
The programme will be delivered to 1500 primary school children in the York area, and will be commencing in February 2011.
York City Knights Championship One Grand Final star and Community Development Officer Jack Stearman, will be the one who is delivering the project to the primary schools in York, he is already a well respected member of the community and will be a good role model to run this project.
Jack Stearman, Community Development Officer at York City Knights says: “With child obesity levels rising, its now important that children get this heart healthy information from a young age, we’ve got to try and make exercise fun. We will be delivering this important message alongside Heart Research UK, a charity that has done so much good work in the past. I am really looking forward, to once again working in the community.”
Barbara Harpham, National Director of Heart Reseearch UK says: “I’m delighted that the York City Knights have received a Healthy Heart Grant and wish them all the best with their project. The programme will help children understand heart health issues, ensuring they have an awareness of the benefits of leading a healthy, active lifestyle.”
You can follow Heart Research UK on Twitter or become a fan of our Facebook page. For more details please contact Jack Stearman on 01904 767404 or email jack@ycknights.co.uk
The programme will be delivered to 1500 primary school children in the York area, and will be commencing in February 2011.
York City Knights Championship One Grand Final star and Community Development Officer Jack Stearman, will be the one who is delivering the project to the primary schools in York, he is already a well respected member of the community and will be a good role model to run this project.
Jack Stearman, Community Development Officer at York City Knights says: “With child obesity levels rising, its now important that children get this heart healthy information from a young age, we’ve got to try and make exercise fun. We will be delivering this important message alongside Heart Research UK, a charity that has done so much good work in the past. I am really looking forward, to once again working in the community.”
Barbara Harpham, National Director of Heart Reseearch UK says: “I’m delighted that the York City Knights have received a Healthy Heart Grant and wish them all the best with their project. The programme will help children understand heart health issues, ensuring they have an awareness of the benefits of leading a healthy, active lifestyle.”
You can follow Heart Research UK on Twitter or become a fan of our Facebook page. For more details please contact Jack Stearman on 01904 767404 or email jack@ycknights.co.uk
Knights Kick Off In Pre-season Friendly
York City Knights had the first pre-season friendly of the 2011 season yesterday playing Super League outfit Castleford Tigers. This was the first real chance for Head Coach Dave Woods to assess his new squad and to look forward to putting in his final preparations ahead of what promises to be the most exciting season in recent years. Community Coach Jack Stearman (pictured) was pleased to get back out on the pitch.
The Knights next game will be against Castleford at Huntington Stadium on Sunday 16th January, 3pm KO. Fomer Knights Scholarship player and now Castleford Tigers first team player Sam Orange made his debut yesterday for the Tigers and managed to cross the white wash scoring within minutes of being on the field. It is likely Orange will play again this weekend and certainly poses a threat.
If Orange does play he may well come up against some familiar faces in former scholarship players, Ed Smith, Kristian Brining, Tom Holmes and Ash Winstanley. All four players have been on the Knights scholarship, and have progressed onto the first team ranks. Chris Thorman York City Knights Assistant Coach said: "All four players have shown great promise in pre-season so far, Eddie, a year older than the others, has already made his debut last year. The other three have enjoyed a tough pre-season, but have adapted well and are looking forward to showing what they can do."
A reminder that Season Tickets are still on sale and can be purchased by calling the Knights Ticket office on 01904 767 404.
The Knights next game will be against Castleford at Huntington Stadium on Sunday 16th January, 3pm KO. Fomer Knights Scholarship player and now Castleford Tigers first team player Sam Orange made his debut yesterday for the Tigers and managed to cross the white wash scoring within minutes of being on the field. It is likely Orange will play again this weekend and certainly poses a threat.
If Orange does play he may well come up against some familiar faces in former scholarship players, Ed Smith, Kristian Brining, Tom Holmes and Ash Winstanley. All four players have been on the Knights scholarship, and have progressed onto the first team ranks. Chris Thorman York City Knights Assistant Coach said: "All four players have shown great promise in pre-season so far, Eddie, a year older than the others, has already made his debut last year. The other three have enjoyed a tough pre-season, but have adapted well and are looking forward to showing what they can do."
A reminder that Season Tickets are still on sale and can be purchased by calling the Knights Ticket office on 01904 767 404.
Youngster Recognised In Top Achievement
Pictures Under 13s Service Area players
PLAYERS from across North Yorkshire all came together to attend the North Yorkshire Service Area Presentation night to honour their achievement of being selected and successfully completing the training schedule. Players age from the Under 13’s to under 16’s attended the night joined by York City Knights players and coaching staff, held at Bar13, Huntington Stadium. Knights first team stars shared their experiences with the audience about how they reached the level they are at. Knights players, Jack Stearman and Ash Winstanley talked about their time in the North Yorkshire Service Area scheme when they were younger and the sacrifices they had to make to gain professional contracts whilst Rhys Clarke and Scott Woods were on hand to present the certificates.
York City Knights Head Coach, Dave Woods concluded the presentation explaining how as a professional club, the Knights feel that the player pathway is important to player development, with examples now being shown with the introduction of Ash Winstanley and Jack Stearman into the first team. In a somewhat new look Service Area with a revised format under the RFL initiative different from previous years many of those involved commented on the success that has been achieved. The Service represents one part of a player pathway system which in time can provide an opportunity to progress and for youngster to fulfil their potential.
The night was organised by the newly formed Coach Player Action Group which is made up of a range of representatives from amateur clubs, RFL staff and the York City Knights.
Adam Prentis, Knights Community Development Officer, who has been part of this player pathway for the last five years has seen the success of the system and commented:
“The Service Area would not be what it is without all the volunteers that give up there spare time to help the youngsters have opportunities such as this. The formation of the Coach Player Action Group has brought club members from across North Yorkshire working together to benefit the youngsters in our region. Both Anne Thompson (RFL Talent Coach) and Nick Settle (North Yorkshire Service Area Coordinator) have had a significant input into the work achieved in 2010. One volunteer that would deserve a particular mention is New Earswick All Blacks Club Secretary Dawn Leatt who has given up countless hours of her time to the Service Area.
On the night new Knights signing 16 year old Ash Winstanly and first team regular Jack Stearman spoke of their experiences as both players remember the impact that playing for the Service area had on their Rugby careers. These two are not alone, some of the players that played with Jack now play for other professional clubs for example Ross Divorty (Featherstone) and Pat Smith (Sheffield Eagles). I am sure, as time goes on this number will increase. From the Knights point of view the more local talent representing our first team the better as well as maintaining the high standard of amateur Rugby within the area."
For any volunteers wishing to become a part of the North Yorkshire Service Area please contact Service Area Coordinator Nick Settle on nicholas.settle@york.gov.uk
York City Knights Head Coach, Dave Woods concluded the presentation explaining how as a professional club, the Knights feel that the player pathway is important to player development, with examples now being shown with the introduction of Ash Winstanley and Jack Stearman into the first team. In a somewhat new look Service Area with a revised format under the RFL initiative different from previous years many of those involved commented on the success that has been achieved. The Service represents one part of a player pathway system which in time can provide an opportunity to progress and for youngster to fulfil their potential.
The night was organised by the newly formed Coach Player Action Group which is made up of a range of representatives from amateur clubs, RFL staff and the York City Knights.
Adam Prentis, Knights Community Development Officer, who has been part of this player pathway for the last five years has seen the success of the system and commented:
“The Service Area would not be what it is without all the volunteers that give up there spare time to help the youngsters have opportunities such as this. The formation of the Coach Player Action Group has brought club members from across North Yorkshire working together to benefit the youngsters in our region. Both Anne Thompson (RFL Talent Coach) and Nick Settle (North Yorkshire Service Area Coordinator) have had a significant input into the work achieved in 2010. One volunteer that would deserve a particular mention is New Earswick All Blacks Club Secretary Dawn Leatt who has given up countless hours of her time to the Service Area.
On the night new Knights signing 16 year old Ash Winstanly and first team regular Jack Stearman spoke of their experiences as both players remember the impact that playing for the Service area had on their Rugby careers. These two are not alone, some of the players that played with Jack now play for other professional clubs for example Ross Divorty (Featherstone) and Pat Smith (Sheffield Eagles). I am sure, as time goes on this number will increase. From the Knights point of view the more local talent representing our first team the better as well as maintaining the high standard of amateur Rugby within the area."
For any volunteers wishing to become a part of the North Yorkshire Service Area please contact Service Area Coordinator Nick Settle on nicholas.settle@york.gov.uk
Vote Lee Waterman
Knights Holiday Club Confirmed for 2011!
The York City Knights are back up and running with their successful Multi sports camp Kids Club taking place in Febraury half term school holidays. The dates have now been confirmed as Monday 22nd, Wednesday 23rd and Thursday 24th February. Each holiday club will run for three consecutive days and is based at local Rugby League club Heworth situated off Elmpark Way, YO31 1DX. Knights first team players and Community Coaches Chris Thorman, Lee Waterman and Jack Stearman will be amongst the Knights Community team coaching on the holiday club.
All three players recently played in the Championship One final securing promotion for the Knights. Chris is the most high profile of the players and has previously Captained England at Full honours in addition to playing in the NRL in Australia. The newly promoted Knights play at Huntington Stadium are currently in training for what promises to be their most exciting season in recent years with several big name signings to boost the team's prospects for the up coming season. In terms of value for the money the holiday club is one of the best around with children that book on all three day for just £40 and includes an Exclusive Knights Tshirt for any children who attend all three days. Children can also opt to book for one day at a time if they wish to see if they enjoy the experience at a cost of just £15 per day. The club starts at 10am until 3pm every day unless families opt to pay an additional £2 per day for the 'Early bird' offer. The holiday club is open to all children regardless of ability or past experience.
Adam Prentis Knights Community Development Manager “Over any school holidays it’s quite easy for children to sit in front of the TV. The Holiday club is an opportunity to have fun, have some exercise and make new friends. It is also a great opportunity to meet Chris Thorman and Jack Stearman, Both Knights players with very different backgrounds. Chris has many years of experience playing in Super League and Captaining England, while Jack is a local lad who went to school in York and is a product of New Earswick All Blacks club. Many of these the children that attend our holiday club already recognise Chris and Jack from the schools work that the Knights do within the Community.”
To book a place on the holiday club please contact the Knights office on 01904 767 404.
All three players recently played in the Championship One final securing promotion for the Knights. Chris is the most high profile of the players and has previously Captained England at Full honours in addition to playing in the NRL in Australia. The newly promoted Knights play at Huntington Stadium are currently in training for what promises to be their most exciting season in recent years with several big name signings to boost the team's prospects for the up coming season. In terms of value for the money the holiday club is one of the best around with children that book on all three day for just £40 and includes an Exclusive Knights Tshirt for any children who attend all three days. Children can also opt to book for one day at a time if they wish to see if they enjoy the experience at a cost of just £15 per day. The club starts at 10am until 3pm every day unless families opt to pay an additional £2 per day for the 'Early bird' offer. The holiday club is open to all children regardless of ability or past experience.
Adam Prentis Knights Community Development Manager “Over any school holidays it’s quite easy for children to sit in front of the TV. The Holiday club is an opportunity to have fun, have some exercise and make new friends. It is also a great opportunity to meet Chris Thorman and Jack Stearman, Both Knights players with very different backgrounds. Chris has many years of experience playing in Super League and Captaining England, while Jack is a local lad who went to school in York and is a product of New Earswick All Blacks club. Many of these the children that attend our holiday club already recognise Chris and Jack from the schools work that the Knights do within the Community.”
To book a place on the holiday club please contact the Knights office on 01904 767 404.
Lancealotto results now available on the Website.
Lancealotto results are now available on the Foundation page on a weekly basis. They will be updated every Monday morning. Just click on the tab at the top of the screen to access these results.
If you wish to take party in Lancealotto, where you have the opportunity, for as little as £1 per week, to win £500 a day then please contact the office on 01904 767404 or fill out the form available in the lottery part of the website.
If you wish to take party in Lancealotto, where you have the opportunity, for as little as £1 per week, to win £500 a day then please contact the office on 01904 767404 or fill out the form available in the lottery part of the website.
York City Knights Versus York Select - 27th December 2010 3pm KO Huntington Stadium
Profits from York City Knight's’ annual charity challenge match against the York Select XIII will be shared between St Leonard’s Hospice and the Knights Foundation, it has been revealed.
The Lee McTigue Memorial match will be staged on Bank Holiday Monday, December 27, at Huntington Stadium (3pm), and will be the Championship new boys’ first pre-season fixture.
“We are delighted to be able to support St Leonard’s Hospice. The work they do taking care of people with life-threatening illnesses and the support they offer their families is invaluable, and I hope the people of York come out to support the game and pay tribute to Lee McTigue.” For full story please visit
http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/yorkcityknights/8720436.Charity_boost_from_Knights____challenge_clash
http://charities.everyclick.com/info.xq?id=155446&name=york-city-knights-foundation
YORK CITY KNIGHTS PLAYER LEE WATERMAN JOINS THE FIGHT FOR WOMEN’S SURVIVAL
York City Knights Centre, Lee Waterman will be posing in his new pink boots on 27th December 2010 in support of Cancer Research UK’s new breast cancer awareness campaign, ‘Join the fight for women’s survival’ and the York City Knights Foundation.
Lee, 23, will be wearing the custom made pink boots throughout the York City Knights 2011 campaign in the Cooperative Championship League. The boots have kindly been paid for by K Walker & Co Accountants.
Lee said: “Everyone knows someone who has been touched by cancer and I just wanted to do something a bit different to support these two charities that are close to my heart.”
In the last few years, more women have been diagnosed with breast cancer than ever before, with more than 45,500 new cases each year. Every year, around 150 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in York.*
But there is good news. Hundreds of thousands of women in the UK today are breast cancer survivors thanks to advances in research – and Cancer Research UK has been at the heart of that progress.
Cancer Research UK is the largest single funder of breast cancer research in the UK, spending over £44 million on groundbreaking work last year. This research covers all aspects of the disease, from understanding its molecular causes and investigating new ways to prevent and diagnose it, to developing better treatments.
As breast cancer is still the most common cancer in the UK, Cancer Research UK’s work is vital.
Lindsay Kay, Cancer Research UK’s Area Volunteer Manager for York, said: “We are really pleased that Lee has decided to fundraise for us in such a novel way. Our research is making a real impact on breast cancer survival but there is still a long way to go. We need you to help us fight harder.
If you would like to sponsor Lee in his efforts please visit:
http://charities.everyclick.com/info.xq?id=155446&name=york-city-knights-foundation
About breast cancer
About Cancer Research UK
Lee, 23, will be wearing the custom made pink boots throughout the York City Knights 2011 campaign in the Cooperative Championship League. The boots have kindly been paid for by K Walker & Co Accountants.
Lee said: “Everyone knows someone who has been touched by cancer and I just wanted to do something a bit different to support these two charities that are close to my heart.”
In the last few years, more women have been diagnosed with breast cancer than ever before, with more than 45,500 new cases each year. Every year, around 150 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in York.*
But there is good news. Hundreds of thousands of women in the UK today are breast cancer survivors thanks to advances in research – and Cancer Research UK has been at the heart of that progress.
Cancer Research UK is the largest single funder of breast cancer research in the UK, spending over £44 million on groundbreaking work last year. This research covers all aspects of the disease, from understanding its molecular causes and investigating new ways to prevent and diagnose it, to developing better treatments.
As breast cancer is still the most common cancer in the UK, Cancer Research UK’s work is vital.
Lindsay Kay, Cancer Research UK’s Area Volunteer Manager for York, said: “We are really pleased that Lee has decided to fundraise for us in such a novel way. Our research is making a real impact on breast cancer survival but there is still a long way to go. We need you to help us fight harder.
If you would like to sponsor Lee in his efforts please visit:
http://charities.everyclick.com/info.xq?id=155446&name=york-city-knights-foundation
About breast cancer
- Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with one in nine women developing the disease during their lifetime.
- Four out of five cases of breast cancer occur in women aged 50 and over but it’s important for women of all ages to know what’s normal, report any unusual changes without delay, and attend screening when invited.
- Every year more than 45,500 women in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer –around 125 every day
- Yet more women are surviving breast cancer than ever before
- Breast cancer is more likely to be treated successfully if it is detected early.
- Breast cancer can also affect men but that is rare. Around 290 cases are diagnosed each year in the UK, compared with 36,000 cases of prostate cancer.
About Cancer Research UK
- Cancer Research UK is the world’s leading charity dedicated to beating cancer through research.
- The charity’s groundbreaking work into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer has helped save millions of lives. This work is funded entirely by the public.
- Cancer Research UK has been at the heart of the progress that has already seen survival rates double in the last 40 years.
- Cancer Research UK supports research into all aspects of cancer through the work of over 4,000 scientists, doctors and nurses.
- Together with its partners and supporters, Cancer Research UK's vision is to beat cancer.
Burnholme rugby league team on the road to Wembley- Carnegie Champion Schools
Youngsters from Burnholme Community College are on the road to Wembley. The York school’s Year 11 rugby league team reached round two of the Carnegie National Cup with a stunning 38-8 victory over Bradford-based visitors Thornton School. The final of the competition will be played at Wembley and Burnholme are waiting to learn their second round opponents, although they will have a home tie. Burnholme reached the first round proper after an unbeaten triumph in the North Yorkshire competition at Joseph Rowntree School.
Having won that district round, Burnholme qualified for the Yorkshire regional knock-out competition, which consists of five rounds. The regional winner qualifies for the Wembley final. Burnholme built up a 20-0 halftime lead against Thornton with four tries from Josh Poulter, Fraser West, David Hayes and MacCauley Atkin. The second-half performance was all about seeing out the game, which they did in fine style with a brace of tries from Dan Coulson and other scores from Ryan Noble and a second for Poulter. Thornton hit back with two fine tries of their own to make the final score 38-8.
There was a conversion for hooker Poulter and two from Hayes, the son of York Wasps legend Rich Hayes.
Tom Day, a Burnholme PE teacher, said: “What a fantastic feeling – not only for the lads, but for everyone at the school. To qualify for the second round of this event is unbelievable and the boys deserve all the credit they can get.”
York City Knights player Jack Stearman has been helping to coach the side working together with the Jorvik School Sports Partnership. Stearman said “It’s brilliant. The lads have worked really hard. It is their final opportunity to play for their school and they really showed pride, grit and determination to win the game. They all want to do really well in this competition and they all really believe in themselves. It’s not only good for the school to be in the second round, but to have a school from North Yorkshire really shows that our work in the schools and the community is paying off.”
Having won that district round, Burnholme qualified for the Yorkshire regional knock-out competition, which consists of five rounds. The regional winner qualifies for the Wembley final. Burnholme built up a 20-0 halftime lead against Thornton with four tries from Josh Poulter, Fraser West, David Hayes and MacCauley Atkin. The second-half performance was all about seeing out the game, which they did in fine style with a brace of tries from Dan Coulson and other scores from Ryan Noble and a second for Poulter. Thornton hit back with two fine tries of their own to make the final score 38-8.
There was a conversion for hooker Poulter and two from Hayes, the son of York Wasps legend Rich Hayes.
Tom Day, a Burnholme PE teacher, said: “What a fantastic feeling – not only for the lads, but for everyone at the school. To qualify for the second round of this event is unbelievable and the boys deserve all the credit they can get.”
York City Knights player Jack Stearman has been helping to coach the side working together with the Jorvik School Sports Partnership. Stearman said “It’s brilliant. The lads have worked really hard. It is their final opportunity to play for their school and they really showed pride, grit and determination to win the game. They all want to do really well in this competition and they all really believe in themselves. It’s not only good for the school to be in the second round, but to have a school from North Yorkshire really shows that our work in the schools and the community is paying off.”
Knights Launch Secondary School Assembly Programme
York City Knights have delivered a special assembly at Archbishop Holgate's School to promote teamwork and team spirit – with a star turn by success-laden head coach Dave Woods.
The event followed a request from Archbishop Holgate’s for the Co-operative Championship One play-off winners to recreate for older children the Winning Formula assembly programme their community department has used so successfully in primary schools.
Aussie Woods, who has led led York, Castleford and Gateshead to promotion in his three jobs in English rugby league, was among the Knights contingent to share his experiences.
Others included former England international Chris Thorman, who boasts more than 12 years as a full-time professional, and York-born Jack Stearman, who rose from the amateur game with local club New Earswick All Black to be a leading light in the Knights’ 2010 season. The Knights also paraded the Championship One play-off trophy.
Knights community development chief Adam Prentis said: “Although the Knights have not delivered many secondary school assemblies in the past, it was something we are only too happy to do. The theme focuses along the lines of a ‘winning team’ from the 2010 promotion-winning season but tailored to an older audience. It also includes the characteristics of aspiring to be a professional athlete.”
The event followed a request from Archbishop Holgate’s for the Co-operative Championship One play-off winners to recreate for older children the Winning Formula assembly programme their community department has used so successfully in primary schools.
Aussie Woods, who has led led York, Castleford and Gateshead to promotion in his three jobs in English rugby league, was among the Knights contingent to share his experiences.
Others included former England international Chris Thorman, who boasts more than 12 years as a full-time professional, and York-born Jack Stearman, who rose from the amateur game with local club New Earswick All Black to be a leading light in the Knights’ 2010 season. The Knights also paraded the Championship One play-off trophy.
Knights community development chief Adam Prentis said: “Although the Knights have not delivered many secondary school assemblies in the past, it was something we are only too happy to do. The theme focuses along the lines of a ‘winning team’ from the 2010 promotion-winning season but tailored to an older audience. It also includes the characteristics of aspiring to be a professional athlete.”
Chris Thorman Put’s Year 11 Students Through a Gym Session Like Never Before!
Star Knights player and fitness guru Chris Thorman has recently been working in Archbishop Holgate Secondary school, York teaching Children about the importance of health related exercise not only in preparation for sport but also to lead a healthier lifestyle. The gym based session and also combined with Rugby League taster sessions to enable student an insight into the life of a Professional Rugby League player and the dedication required to make it the elite level.
Former England International, Thorman was recent described by former New Zealand International Rugby League star Robbie Paul as ‘one of the fittest player around in Super League and also one of the fittest he ever trained with” also is Level 3 personal trainer and has a passion for pushing his clients hard to reach their potential.
Shadowing Thorman on his travels was volunteer student from York St John University allowing them to combine the theory they have learned with the application of seeing it first hand.
This current secondary school programme is an extension of the Knights primary school initiative ‘Get Active’ programme as knights community team aim to engage with secondary school students and 6th forms in the area to facilitate their learning. The Knights have already reached out to hundreds of secondary school children since the start of this school year working with children in Archbishop Holgate, Canon Lee and Burnholme community college with this project and will visit other schools in the new year.
Adam Prentis Knights Development Manager said "Chris has now been with the Knights one year in December. His signing was the biggest in the club shorts history signalling intensions to the rest of the League the clubs ambition. His pedigree and skills shone through most recently on the big occasion as Chris was named Man of the Match in the Champion One play off final. It's a fantastic asset to have Chris working in the school programme at the Knights."
For more detail on fitness, health and nutrition please visit the Knights Community website site at www.yckfoundation.com .
Former England International, Thorman was recent described by former New Zealand International Rugby League star Robbie Paul as ‘one of the fittest player around in Super League and also one of the fittest he ever trained with” also is Level 3 personal trainer and has a passion for pushing his clients hard to reach their potential.
Shadowing Thorman on his travels was volunteer student from York St John University allowing them to combine the theory they have learned with the application of seeing it first hand.
This current secondary school programme is an extension of the Knights primary school initiative ‘Get Active’ programme as knights community team aim to engage with secondary school students and 6th forms in the area to facilitate their learning. The Knights have already reached out to hundreds of secondary school children since the start of this school year working with children in Archbishop Holgate, Canon Lee and Burnholme community college with this project and will visit other schools in the new year.
Adam Prentis Knights Development Manager said "Chris has now been with the Knights one year in December. His signing was the biggest in the club shorts history signalling intensions to the rest of the League the clubs ambition. His pedigree and skills shone through most recently on the big occasion as Chris was named Man of the Match in the Champion One play off final. It's a fantastic asset to have Chris working in the school programme at the Knights."
For more detail on fitness, health and nutrition please visit the Knights Community website site at www.yckfoundation.com .
School To Club Link Successs!
The School to club links programme is now in its third year and this is one such example of the success and impact the programme has had at grass route level. Results similar to this have been seen throughout the seven different club link programmes delivered through the partnership with 33 after school clubs running every week for the east side of the city.
The programme’s success results from schools and amateur clubs working together to breakdown barriers and encourage pupils tojoin clubs. Coaches attend schools to deliver after school sessions on school site for 6 weeks. Following the after schoo club, pupils are invited to festivals and free sessions at the club training nights. This has lead to numerous pupils joining clubs who otherwise would not have had the opportunity or confidence to do so.
Reece Ounsley and Daniel Scholfield both pupils from Skelton primary school, in York received a 6 weeks coaching block from the York City Knights Rugby League Club. They then represented their school at a Tag Rugby festival against other school receiving the same programme within the cluster. From here the pair made the transition from school club to amateur by joining New Earswick All Blacks Amateur Club and now play Rugby on a weekly basis.
A year after being involved in a club link programme, Reece and Daniel (pictured) have picked up a host of medals they have won at their club and wearing their New Earswick All Blacks kit. Both players now help the younger age groups at the school in their Tag Rugby lessons hoping to encourage others to follow in their footsteps.
Jorvik Partnership Development Manager Kevin Davies said ‘ This is a perfect example of how the club link programme should work. The initiative provides the opportunity for pupils to experience high quality coaching from external coaches. For those that really enjoy the sport, they have the opportunity to continue in a community club. This not only helps community clubs survive and flourish, but also has an impact on the health of the young people who join clubs. This is something that pupils can get involved in for year and eventually become coaches and committee staff, putting something back into the club and the sport.’
For more information on the school to club links programme please contact Kevin Davies at pdminyork@hotmail.co.uk .
The programme’s success results from schools and amateur clubs working together to breakdown barriers and encourage pupils tojoin clubs. Coaches attend schools to deliver after school sessions on school site for 6 weeks. Following the after schoo club, pupils are invited to festivals and free sessions at the club training nights. This has lead to numerous pupils joining clubs who otherwise would not have had the opportunity or confidence to do so.
Reece Ounsley and Daniel Scholfield both pupils from Skelton primary school, in York received a 6 weeks coaching block from the York City Knights Rugby League Club. They then represented their school at a Tag Rugby festival against other school receiving the same programme within the cluster. From here the pair made the transition from school club to amateur by joining New Earswick All Blacks Amateur Club and now play Rugby on a weekly basis.
A year after being involved in a club link programme, Reece and Daniel (pictured) have picked up a host of medals they have won at their club and wearing their New Earswick All Blacks kit. Both players now help the younger age groups at the school in their Tag Rugby lessons hoping to encourage others to follow in their footsteps.
Jorvik Partnership Development Manager Kevin Davies said ‘ This is a perfect example of how the club link programme should work. The initiative provides the opportunity for pupils to experience high quality coaching from external coaches. For those that really enjoy the sport, they have the opportunity to continue in a community club. This not only helps community clubs survive and flourish, but also has an impact on the health of the young people who join clubs. This is something that pupils can get involved in for year and eventually become coaches and committee staff, putting something back into the club and the sport.’
For more information on the school to club links programme please contact Kevin Davies at pdminyork@hotmail.co.uk .
Knights Head Coach Delievers Expert Coaching Class
Knights Head Coach Dave Woods past on his top tips to youngsters from across North Yorkshire earlier this week as part of aseries of Coaching Education course to give tips and advice to amateur rugby league coaches in the York area. Over 40 youngsters travelled from across North Yorkshire to take advantage of the Professional coaches words of advice as he tested the children core skills with a variety of drills and games.
Coaches from amateur clubs and the North Yorkshire Service Area saw how a professional coach like Woods – who also works with England Community Lions teams as part of his links with the Rugby Football League – would lead a session. Woods was also joined by former Knights player and Assistant first team coach Mick Ramsden and players from the Knights.
Another such event, this time with older Service Area players, is planned for December 8th for further details please contact Nick Settle, the North Yorkshire Service Area Coordinator.
Coaches from amateur clubs and the North Yorkshire Service Area saw how a professional coach like Woods – who also works with England Community Lions teams as part of his links with the Rugby Football League – would lead a session. Woods was also joined by former Knights player and Assistant first team coach Mick Ramsden and players from the Knights.
Another such event, this time with older Service Area players, is planned for December 8th for further details please contact Nick Settle, the North Yorkshire Service Area Coordinator.
Knights Development Centre Continue With Red Hot Start To Season
York College rugby league team have got off to a blistering start to their season having rattled up 162 points in just three games – with several players now in Knights sights. Coached by the Knights’ former England ace Chris Thorman, the York student stars followed opening 44-16 and 40-12 wins over Leeds Building College and Huddersfield’s Greenhead College, respectively, with a 78-0 trouncing of a previously unbeaten Kirklees College in midweek. It has left Thorman purring as he predicts success in College Rugby League’ Yorkshire Two, the middle of three tiers in this county. “With form like this, we should be in division one,” he said. “We have a really, really good team. A few students have already played for the Knights’ reserves,one player plays for a league Academy whilst others were previously on the Knights’ scholarship scheme.
Others, are likely to join the new under-18s ‘extended’ scholarship the Knights are to set up in the new year as part of the Rugby Football League’s restructured junior system. It all shows that the Knights’ player pathway links with York College, forged fours years ago when the college launched its pioneering rugby league centre in conjunction with the club, are paying off for all parties. Thorman said: “There will definitely be a few lads getting a call when our reserves’ season starts, and there’ll be a few joining us in our (the first team’s) pre-season. The standard is really good. A number of rugby union lads have also come in and taken to it really well.”
Fellow Knight Lee Waterman was also there at an event which further bolstered links between the club and the Sim Balk Lane establishment. Thorman added: “There’s been an increase in support for the college team when they play. It’s quite an event when there’s a home game as a lot of people come down just to watch the rugby.
Others, are likely to join the new under-18s ‘extended’ scholarship the Knights are to set up in the new year as part of the Rugby Football League’s restructured junior system. It all shows that the Knights’ player pathway links with York College, forged fours years ago when the college launched its pioneering rugby league centre in conjunction with the club, are paying off for all parties. Thorman said: “There will definitely be a few lads getting a call when our reserves’ season starts, and there’ll be a few joining us in our (the first team’s) pre-season. The standard is really good. A number of rugby union lads have also come in and taken to it really well.”
Fellow Knight Lee Waterman was also there at an event which further bolstered links between the club and the Sim Balk Lane establishment. Thorman added: “There’s been an increase in support for the college team when they play. It’s quite an event when there’s a home game as a lot of people come down just to watch the rugby.
Huntington School Sports Volunteering
Emma Sellers of The York City Knights delivered the Sports Volunteer Course at Huntington School and watched the children enrolled on the course deliver their very own coaching sessions for their chosen sport of interest.
Sellers said;
“These children put so much effort into this programme and delivery was up there with the best of them. I saw some really good leadership demonstrations and the children have taken on board all they have been learning from the course. This has been a great success. I hope these children go onto exceed their knowledge and skills and become quality coaches or leaders in the future. These children made their teacher, Mr Currie and I very proud. Excellent work team, a job well done! ”
“I have given the children the opportunity to get in touch with the Knights now or in the future to help out volunteering and getting some hands on experience to enhance their career opportunities and experience in a sporting environment.”
Sellers said;
“These children put so much effort into this programme and delivery was up there with the best of them. I saw some really good leadership demonstrations and the children have taken on board all they have been learning from the course. This has been a great success. I hope these children go onto exceed their knowledge and skills and become quality coaches or leaders in the future. These children made their teacher, Mr Currie and I very proud. Excellent work team, a job well done! ”
“I have given the children the opportunity to get in touch with the Knights now or in the future to help out volunteering and getting some hands on experience to enhance their career opportunities and experience in a sporting environment.”
The Teacher Touch Tournament
The winning team with Knights players of the teacher tournament
The York City Knights players, back room staff and community staff all turned out to play their part in a Touch Rugby festival especially aimed at Teachers and support staff within the Education system. The event took place a Huntington Secondary School, York, as teachers were put into teams with each team having a Knights representative included. This is the first time the Knights have ventured in such a festival, but found feedback given from the teachers was all positive. The opportunity enabled teachers to experience what many of them have been teaching their pupils, as part of the Knight's Community programme. Every year the Knights engage with over 50 primary schools and the York Tag rugby festival is one of the biggest of its kind in North Yorkshire. There were teachers who were newcomers to the sport and they felt it helped improve their knowledge of the rules and tactics on the game of Rugby League.
Adam Prentis, Knights Development Manager said 'Events like this help to improve rapport and good working relations with staff of whom I have monthly contact with for a number of years now. It was also great fun and an opportunity for everyone to relax and enjoy themselves. Due to the response and the success of the event there are now plans to repeat the teachers Touch festival.'
If you are interested in playing Touch Rugby please contact Nick Settle the North Yorkshire Service Area Coordinator who start a Council led inititative at Energise Sport Centre, Acomb York 630pm-730pm starting this Thursday for 6 weeks atnicholas.settle@york.gov.uk. Or for further information about the Knights Teachers Touch festival please contact Adam Prentis on 01904 767404.
Adam Prentis, Knights Development Manager said 'Events like this help to improve rapport and good working relations with staff of whom I have monthly contact with for a number of years now. It was also great fun and an opportunity for everyone to relax and enjoy themselves. Due to the response and the success of the event there are now plans to repeat the teachers Touch festival.'
If you are interested in playing Touch Rugby please contact Nick Settle the North Yorkshire Service Area Coordinator who start a Council led inititative at Energise Sport Centre, Acomb York 630pm-730pm starting this Thursday for 6 weeks at
York City Knights Cash Back Scheme
The York City Knights are currently working with all schools around North Yorkshire, not only to increase attendences for the York City Knights, but to help benefit schools as well. It acts as a big thank-you from the York City Knights Development team to all the schools who they work with.
The Knights are currently showing off their Championship 1 Play-off Winners trophy in schools as part of an assembly programme, introducing the children and the schools to the cashback offer and to also teach the children about what personal qualities it takes to become a winning team.
The Cshback Scheme that the Knights are currently running is valid on all Under 16 Season tickets. Junior Season tickets are available to order from the York City Knights office by calling 01904 767404 and they are priced at £25 standing and £30 seating, those prices get you into all home and away games that the Knights play in. Each Junior season ticket costs just £1 per game.
York City Knights player and new Community Development Coach Lee Waterman says of the cashback scheme; " It would be fantastic if we could get the people of York Cheering on their home town club, which is going to be a big season for everyone involved. This is such a good offer that will not only benefit us as a club, by more support, but the childrens school as they are receiving money. It is a win win situation for everyone involved."
The Knights are currently showing off their Championship 1 Play-off Winners trophy in schools as part of an assembly programme, introducing the children and the schools to the cashback offer and to also teach the children about what personal qualities it takes to become a winning team.
The Cshback Scheme that the Knights are currently running is valid on all Under 16 Season tickets. Junior Season tickets are available to order from the York City Knights office by calling 01904 767404 and they are priced at £25 standing and £30 seating, those prices get you into all home and away games that the Knights play in. Each Junior season ticket costs just £1 per game.
York City Knights player and new Community Development Coach Lee Waterman says of the cashback scheme; " It would be fantastic if we could get the people of York Cheering on their home town club, which is going to be a big season for everyone involved. This is such a good offer that will not only benefit us as a club, by more support, but the childrens school as they are receiving money. It is a win win situation for everyone involved."
Carnegie Champion School Qualifiers Complete
York High and King James School, Knaresborough, both hit the double at the latest Carnegie Champions School rugby league festivals for York and North Yorkshire. York High won through to the Yorkshire-wide regional tournament as York/North Yorkshire champions at Year 10 level and also progressed as Year 11 runners-up, while King James were Year 9 champions and likewise went through at Year 10 level as the second-placed team. York duo Archbishop Holgate’s School and Burnholme High did not miss out on success either. The former qualified as Year 9 runners-up up while Burnholme were Year 11 champions. The York area Champion Schools festivals are run by North Yorkshire Service Area co-ordinator Nick Settle alongside York City Knights’ community department, of which Knights first-team star Lee Waterman is now a member.
Waterman said: “It was a good standard and it’s good to see a lot of young lads willing to give their time up after school to play the game.”
The Champion Schools tournament is the biggest competition in the country, where teams compete at local, then regional, then national level, at each age level, with the ultimate finals taking place at Wembley ahead of rugby league’s ChallengeCup final. The Year 8s winners and runners-up for York/North Yorkshire were Burnholme and King James respectively, while at Year 7 level, the winners and runners-up were York High and Settle Middle School, Giggleswick, respectively. King James’ advance shows further the continued improvement in rugby league in what was predominantly a rugby union school. Waterman said: “More people are learning the game and it’s good to see them getting into it and playing. It’s good for the sport. It’s also good for clubs like the Knights. You get to spot young talent early, especially with lads who aren’t already at amateur clubs, and can then bring them on board.”
Waterman said: “It was a good standard and it’s good to see a lot of young lads willing to give their time up after school to play the game.”
The Champion Schools tournament is the biggest competition in the country, where teams compete at local, then regional, then national level, at each age level, with the ultimate finals taking place at Wembley ahead of rugby league’s ChallengeCup final. The Year 8s winners and runners-up for York/North Yorkshire were Burnholme and King James respectively, while at Year 7 level, the winners and runners-up were York High and Settle Middle School, Giggleswick, respectively. King James’ advance shows further the continued improvement in rugby league in what was predominantly a rugby union school. Waterman said: “More people are learning the game and it’s good to see them getting into it and playing. It’s good for the sport. It’s also good for clubs like the Knights. You get to spot young talent early, especially with lads who aren’t already at amateur clubs, and can then bring them on board.”
York College Tag Festival
The York City Knights Community Team held their first ever tag rugby league tournament at York College on Wednesday 20th October. The event coincided with the third league fixture of the rugby teams unbeaten campaign. Over 30 participants attended the event, which was designed to promote rugby league and to make the thousands of York College students aware of the success of the York City Knights. All participants that took part were given vouchers for Subway and the winning team were given complimentary tickets to the next home game. All in all it was a huge success and something the Knights will be looking to do again in the near future. Knights star Chris Thorman gave it his backing saying “It seemed like everyone thoroughly enjoyed the event and it proves that tag rugby is a great way to promote the game for novices or experienced players alike!”
Knight’s Sports Education Success
Knight’s Volunteer Coordinator Emma Sellers had been working in three Secondary schools in York, Manor CE, York High, and Huntington Secondary Schools. Sellers, is currently working with over fifty pupils in York.
Sellers visits Huntington School to deliver the Volunteer Sport Leaders Course to pupils aged 14- 16 years. Pictured above is Sellers, who has masses of experience in the sporting and fitness world, she teaches pupils what it takes to become a good coach, leader and sports volunteer, no matter what their sport of interest. The pupils have been taught lessons on; how to be a good coach, health and safety, planning and event management, child protection and event organisation, and a practical element whereby they deliver their own unique coaching session to the participants enrolled on the course. This course has proven to very successful and educational to pupils in York.
Sellers’ said “the pupils have been great to work with it’s really good to see students who have a real passion for what they are learning about. I cannot wait to see their practical sessions, it really show what they have taken on board, what they have been learning about and put it into practice. This course has shown youngsters that they can be great leaders and volunteers with knowledge, skills, experience and education, a real recipe for sporting success. I hope to see some of these pupils as the next generation of sports coaches. With the London 2012 Olympic Games insight, this will create more awareness of the industries expectations.”
Sports Volunteers Enjoy Knight’s Pilot Programme Success
Volunteer Sports Leaders presented their skills today to Emma Sellers, who is York City Knight’s Volunteer Sports Coordinator. Manor CE School received the free volunteer sports course run by Emma. Sellers, has worked in the sport, health and fitness industry for over nine years with substantial knowledge and expertise. Her aspirations are to pass on her knowledge and experiences to give sporting enthusiasts a clearer picture on what is expected within the industry and how to achieve success. This course helps to give children, aged 14-16 years, a clearer picture of the leisure industries expectations, should they chose to make sport one of their careers or hobbies. The course gives young sporting enthusiasts the opportunity to demonstrate their talents as a sports leader working in teams or off their own initiative. This course has proven to be a real hit with the children.
Child’s quote ‘this is awesome, I never thought the course would be this fun, I wish we could do it again.’
Sellers said, the children from Manor CE School have been a pleasure to work with and to watch them develop into great leaders is very satisfying. The children were fully engrossed in the session delivery which made it such fun. I saw some excellent coaching demonstrations and I am thoroughly proud of the work and efforts put into the course.’
Champion School Off to a Flying Start
Burnholme School and neighbours York High triumphed in the two Carnegie Champion Schools rugby league festivals that have so far taken place in York this year. The Champion Schools tournament is the biggest competition in the country, where teams compete at local, then regional, then national level, with the ultimate finals taking place at Wembley ahead of the Challenge Cup final. The York/North Yorkshire area competitions – run by North Yorkshire Service Area co-ordinator Nick Settle alongside York City Knights’ community department - are underway, with the Year 8s and Years 7s festivals having taken place. Burnholme won the Year 8s festival, comprising nine teams, including new entrants Lady Lumley’s from rugby union heartlands in Pickering, while York High won at Year 7s level. The Year 8s comprised three groups of three, with the top teams in each group playing round robin play-offs to find a winner. The second and thirdplaced teams in each group also went into playoffs. The Year 7s comprised two groups of three, with the two group winners meeting in the final. The respective second and third-placed sides also played off. The overall victors, plus runners- up at each level, go through to the Yorkshire stage. The Year 8 runners-up were King James, of Knaresborough, and the Year 7 runners-up were Settle Middle School, from Giggleswick. Settle said: “The standard was really good from all the teams. I was really impressed with all of them, especially with Burnholme when you consider they’re quite a small school. “All the games were really competitive, and it was also good to have Lady Lumley’s involved for the first time. It’s a sign more schools want to enter this unique tournament and it shows that more and more people are getting into rugby league – once they get a taste for it, it becomes addictive.” The York/North Yorkshire area festivals for the Year 9s, 10s and 11s take place this week, on Monday at Joseph Rowntree School, on Wednesday at York High, and on Thursday at Joseph Rowntree, respectively.
Volunteer Project Success
York City Knights Volunteer Sports Coordinator Emma Sellers has beenworking in Secondary Schools across York delivering Sports VolunteerCourses to 14-16 year old pupils. The course provides young aspiringchildren to develop their skills, knowledge and education in sportsvolunteering benefitting over fifty youngsters across York. For example,coaching, health and safety, event planning and management, childprotection, officiating and delivering group coaching sessions. The coursegives the children a real taste of the sport and leisure industries expectations. York High School is one of the schools currently receiving the course along with Huntington School and Manor CE School. York High School pupils demonstrated what they had taken from the course and put it into practice by delivering their own coaching session. Sellers, has now been in post for three months with the Knights who has currently settled into a new position and role within the club. The 25 year old, who went to Lowfield School, York College and, latterly, Leeds Trinity and All Saints University, a graduate from a degree in Sport Development and Physical Education will apply her expertise to her post of Volunteer Sports Coordinator. Emma, who previously delivered children’s cheerleading courses on behalf of the Knights having also worked as a health and fitness instructor in the community, and also assists work alongside the club’s community development team. Sellers, Knights Volunteer Coordinator said; ‘The pupils presented excellent skills as they delivered their very own coaching sessions to other pupils enrolled on the course. I would like to think some of these pupils will be York’s next generation of sports coaches. I would also like to thank Mr Fitzsimons the pupil’s teacher for his help in getting Knights set up with the school. Both males and females participated in dance, football and netball coaching sessions. It was a joy to watch with some extremely comical dance moves coming from the males and females.’
Young Leaders Take On Rugby League Award
Pupils from Joseph Rowntree Secondary school in York spent the day learning both the theory and practical elements of the Rugby. The programme was delivered by Knights Community Manager Adam Prentis and RFL Volunteers officer Leon Crick. The Junior Rugby League Leaders Award (JRLLA) to give the course its full titles it a recognise qualification by schools and allow pupils an insight into the skills required to volunteer at events, run short coaching sessions, referee games and organising a schools festival.All the pupils were given a short talk about the benefits of volunteering and the V-Program from Leon Crick and how they could get involved in their local service area. They were also told about the York City Knights volunteering and work placement scheme.
Lee Waterman Become Latest Community Member:
Knights top points scorer and Supporters player of the year has become the latest new recruit to the York City Knights Community Team. Lee has always shown a keen interest in helping behind the scenes, and has now been taken on board to help boost rugby league in the area. Having Star players Chris Thorman, Jack Stearman and now Lee Waterman on board certainly helps boost the York City Knights and rugby League as well as their recent promotion. Community Development Manager Adam Prentis stated:"It is great that another one of the players has come on board, it really makes the children stand up and listen when one of their idols come into their school. Lee has settled in very well and we look forward to working with him in the future."
EDUCATION MATTERS
YORK City Knights Community team were this week invited back into St Lawrence’s Primary school in York, this time to give their advice on why Education matters and what implications receiving a good education can have on the rest of your life. The workshop was specifically aimed at year 6 children as the Knights took some time out from their schedules to spend some time explaining the importance of developing their reading skills.Teaching children how to read and write is arguably the most important jobs primary schools have to do.
Adam Prentis, YCK Community Development Manager was joined by Knights star Player Lee Waterman. Lee has recently joined the Knights Community team to work within the schools programme alongside fellow team mates Chris Thorman and Jack Stearman. Lee was recently announced in the Co-operative Championship One team of the Year and is a former British Amateur Rugby League BARLA International. Adam Prentis went on to say: “The reason why a Rugby team was invited into a school was to hear first hand from Lee why he feels education is important for every child regardless of their career plans in the sporting world or otherwise. Teachers from the school made the request as they see the value of hearing this positive message from a male role model hoping the time spent reading with the children will inspire them to improve their reading skills.
Lee brought in his favourite book to explain why the book appealed to him and discuss with the children what factors contribute to a good book. In return the children also discussed their favourite book. ”
Adam Prentis, YCK Community Development Manager was joined by Knights star Player Lee Waterman. Lee has recently joined the Knights Community team to work within the schools programme alongside fellow team mates Chris Thorman and Jack Stearman. Lee was recently announced in the Co-operative Championship One team of the Year and is a former British Amateur Rugby League BARLA International. Adam Prentis went on to say: “The reason why a Rugby team was invited into a school was to hear first hand from Lee why he feels education is important for every child regardless of their career plans in the sporting world or otherwise. Teachers from the school made the request as they see the value of hearing this positive message from a male role model hoping the time spent reading with the children will inspire them to improve their reading skills.
Lee brought in his favourite book to explain why the book appealed to him and discuss with the children what factors contribute to a good book. In return the children also discussed their favourite book. ”
Carnegie Champion School's Set For Launch This Week
The Carnegie Champion School competition is set to get under way this week with Year 7 and Year 8 Boys events taking place at Secondary school's in York. Teams from across North Yorkshire will take part in the event which a National Competition and see the Finalists play at Wembly. York High, King James School, and Canon Lee all have good track record in previous years qualifying from our region and into the later stages of the competition. We would like to wish all youngsters in the event the best of luck and enjoy the occassion.
Tigers Touch Roaring Success!!!
York City Knights combined forces once again with RFL staff to assist in the planning, preparation and delivery of a touch festival targeting students from York St John University. Following on from the fresher’s Fair at St John the ‘York Tigers’ student league team wanted to kick off their preseason training by attracting as many new recruits down to their first training session as possible. Over 40 new students attended the event and players were split into 5 teams playing in the touch tournament which took place at York St John All weather pitch. The Knights who already have a successful primary and secondary school community programme are now keen to expand this by facilitating playing opportunities adults aged between 18-24 in Higher Education. As such the Knights teamed up with League for All Officer Chris Charles, and North Yorkshire Service Area Coordinator Nick Settle. Chris who is relatively new in post is now employed by the RFL to increase Rugby League participation for all, based on alternative forms of the competition. Chris has since retired from the game but whose playing career spanned several years in professional game representing Salford City Reds, Hull KR and more recently Castleford Tigers. Adam Prentis, York City Knights Development and also a former student at York St John said ‘The tournament brought together players of varying abilities, some of whom had never played Rugby in any form before. Hopefully introducing them to the Sport via a game a Touch we will be able to entice them and give them an opportunity to develop their skills and enjoyment for the game in the correct environment. Last year the Tigers won their league and in previous years have had several players who have gone on to make the professional grade. Two of the players, who both represented the Tigers and went onto play for the Knights this year include Dan Wilson and Chris Williams.’For details on playing amateur Rugby League in North Yorkshire please contact Adam Prentis on 01904 641 724 or visit the York City Knights Foundation Website at www.yckfoundation.com . Alternatively email adam@ycknights.co.uk
York City Knights Mascot Winner- Connor Garnett
Following on from the competition that the York City Knights ran this week, they are pleased to announce 11 year old, Manor School Pupil, Connor Garnett as the winner. Connor has been supporting the Knights for 5 years along with his dad, and has not missed many home games. Connor, was surprised by his mum, when she entered the competition for him, and he only found out yesterday when he was brought up to the stadium to meet first team players Jack Stearman, Jack Lee and captain Jordan Ross who presented him with a scarf, flag and his shirt that he will be wearing when running out with the players on Sunday in front of the Sky TV cameras.
Jack Stearman went into his school this morning, to announce that he had won the competition in front of all his year 7 friends. Connor said " It is a dream come true, it is such a surprise, to run out with my favourite teams and players, on telley on such a big occasion, is such a memorable moment, i will never forget it."
Connor, pictured with Knights first team player and his class mates in 7a at manor school. Connor was presented with his match day shirt in front of his school year.
Jack Stearman went into his school this morning, to announce that he had won the competition in front of all his year 7 friends. Connor said " It is a dream come true, it is such a surprise, to run out with my favourite teams and players, on telley on such a big occasion, is such a memorable moment, i will never forget it."
Connor, pictured with Knights first team player and his class mates in 7a at manor school. Connor was presented with his match day shirt in front of his school year.
Volunteer Recruitment Targets Freshers Fair
York City Knights Community Development team joined by North Yorkshire Service Area Coordinator Nick Settle visited York St John University Fresher’s Fair during fresher’s week, in an aim to proactively recruit students to their Volunteering programme. The Knights are not only looking to recruit students to work within their school programmes, which includes working with over 80 primary schools and 16 Secondary schools per year but also looking to expand. The latest Knights recruit is Volunteers Coordinator Emma Sellers, whose aim it is to provide students with the correct link no matter what their chosen sport maybe. The Knights are also working alongside RFL Volunteer Officer Leon Crick and League for All Officer Chris Charles to ensure this programme is as successful as possible.Knights Development Manager Adam Prentis said ‘Every year the Knights take on a number of students from schools, colleges and Universities. These students come from different backgrounds and qualifications and differing ambitions but all with something to offer and willing to put back into the community and gain some experience. Many of the students are Sport students some with the aim of becoming teachers or becoming Community Sport Coaches. We are now looking to recruit students with media and computer skills to help with our Community programme. Rather than us sit back and wait for these students to contact us we want to screen volunteers and help them develop skills with their careers early on in the academic year. We hope that this will stand them in good stead for future opportunities in the workplace.’Further links that the Knights are looking to strengthen are with, that of the University Rugby league team, the York Tigers. Established Knights first team player Chris Williams is a student at the University and has represented the Tigers in the past. By forming a bond, we hope that a link can be made with the Reserve grade academy at the Knights with any players showing significant potential being offered trials with the Knights. The Knights already have had success in recruiting players from the Development centre based at York College. One such noticeable player who was spotted at the Colleg and later signed to the college was teen age sensation Tom Lineham and was recently nominated for Young Player of the Year at the Cooperative Champion Awards.For further details and volunteering opportunity please contact Knights Development Manager Adam Prentis on 01904 767 404 or email adam@ycknights.co.uk.
Your chance to be Knights' Grand Final mascot
York City Knights are running a competition to become the team’s mascot on their biggest day for years – Sunday’s Championship One Grand Final against Oldham.
The name drawn out of a hat will get the opportunity to meet the players, and run out with the team onto the (Super League ground) Halliwell Jones Stadium turf, before the game, which will be televised live on Sky Sports. Over 15,000 fans are expected to fill the stadium as 3 finals will be played on the same day. To be in with a chance of winning, parents or guardians should email their son or daughter’s full name and age, along with their full name, address, and daytime phone number, to Community Coach and Knights player Jack Stearman jack@ycknights.co.uk The mascot has to be aged between eight and 12. The closing date for entries is this Thursday (Thursday 23rd September), at noon. All entries will be put into hatr and the winner drawn at random and will be contacted directly by the club.
The name drawn out of a hat will get the opportunity to meet the players, and run out with the team onto the (Super League ground) Halliwell Jones Stadium turf, before the game, which will be televised live on Sky Sports. Over 15,000 fans are expected to fill the stadium as 3 finals will be played on the same day. To be in with a chance of winning, parents or guardians should email their son or daughter’s full name and age, along with their full name, address, and daytime phone number, to Community Coach and Knights player Jack Stearman jack@ycknights.co.uk The mascot has to be aged between eight and 12. The closing date for entries is this Thursday (Thursday 23rd September), at noon. All entries will be put into hatr and the winner drawn at random and will be contacted directly by the club.
Knights Launch New Programme- Thursday 9th September 2010
The York City Knights Development Team members Jack Stearman and Adam Prentis launched their new 'Helping families live longer' programme today at Archbishop of York Junior School, today. The 6 week programme is aimed at raising awareness and educating families in healthy lifestyles. Due to the success of the Get Active programme, which involves a 6 week programme within the schools, this new programme will be delivered outside of school hours. Limited places are available and expected to fill quickly. For more information please contact the Knights office on 01904 767404.
Get Active is Back - Wednesday 8th September 2010
Here is Chris Thorman pictured at Wheldrake school re-launching the highly successful Get Active programme. Chris will be delivering a six week programme for the children all about how to live a healthy life. It is a fun and interactive programme where weeks one and five are theory based sessions, where children will learn off a power point slide using worksheets, fun activities and food diaries are used to help them understand it. The other 4 weeks are physical activity sessions, where Chris will show the children fun games and exercises they can do with family a friends in order to help them keep fit and healthy.
The Programme has proved hugely popular in the past and teachers are eager for the Knights to go back into schools on a regular basis to teach Get Active
The Programme has proved hugely popular in the past and teachers are eager for the Knights to go back into schools on a regular basis to teach Get Active
Knights Promote Street Games
York City Knights Development Staff Adam Prentis and Emma Sellers, along with York MP, and York City Knights Foundation Trustee, Hugh Bailey, went to re-open the revamped Back Park, just off Leeman Road. Adam and Emma helped children play rugby street games, as well as teaching Dance. It was an open event, and plenty of children took part.
Street games is a new incentive by the RFL for children to play simple rugby games, while they are out and about with their friends. It is the same principle as 'jumpers for goalposts', in football, where we teach children to play easy rugby games in the street.
Adam Prentis commented "It is a great opportunity for the children to learn new games and have fun with their friends on a daily basis, and it is good for the Knights to promote such schemes and promote new children's play areas, it is important for children to be active."
Street games is a new incentive by the RFL for children to play simple rugby games, while they are out and about with their friends. It is the same principle as 'jumpers for goalposts', in football, where we teach children to play easy rugby games in the street.
Adam Prentis commented "It is a great opportunity for the children to learn new games and have fun with their friends on a daily basis, and it is good for the Knights to promote such schemes and promote new children's play areas, it is important for children to be active."
Knights New Recruit
York City Knights have made a new signing ahead of the new school year, in Emma Sellers. Emma has recently graduated from her degree in Sport Development and Physical Education and hopes to apply all her knowledge and expertise to her new post appointed with us as the Volunteer Sports Coordinator targeting 14 – 16 years. The programme is currently being developed by Emma and she hopes to have it rolled out in the schools after the summer holidays in September 2010.
The programme aims to recruit volunteers from secondary schools in York and provide young people with knowledge, skills, training, development and education associated with sports volunteering, for example, how to be a good coach, health and safety, planning and management, child protection, and event organisation over a six week programme. Throughout the programme the pupils will liaise with the volunteer sports coordinator on their sport of interest and links can be facilitated to provide pupils with a volunteering opportunity using the necessary pathways required.
Emma will also help the Knights Development team, having previously worked for them herself, as the Cheerleading Co-ordinator delivering courses for children to experience fun ways to keep active and have fun in an environment full of cheer. This has contributed to lifting participation levels in and across the Yorkshire area targeting girls in primary schools.
Emma has a wealth of knowledge and experience in sport, health and fitness, leisure and physical education.
Emma worked as an advanced health and fitness instructor in the community delivering functional exercise programmes, sport and fitness workouts and training for all populations and has delivered advice and support for children, families and the general public on aspects of leading healthy lifestyles from; nutrition to physical activity to psychology, rehabilitation and sport specific training and may other areas.
Emma is hoping to become a key member of the York City Knights team throughout North Yorkshire in her time at the club. To find out more about Emma and the rest of the York City Knights Community team please visit the Knights' new Community website on www.yckfoundation.com
The programme aims to recruit volunteers from secondary schools in York and provide young people with knowledge, skills, training, development and education associated with sports volunteering, for example, how to be a good coach, health and safety, planning and management, child protection, and event organisation over a six week programme. Throughout the programme the pupils will liaise with the volunteer sports coordinator on their sport of interest and links can be facilitated to provide pupils with a volunteering opportunity using the necessary pathways required.
Emma will also help the Knights Development team, having previously worked for them herself, as the Cheerleading Co-ordinator delivering courses for children to experience fun ways to keep active and have fun in an environment full of cheer. This has contributed to lifting participation levels in and across the Yorkshire area targeting girls in primary schools.
Emma has a wealth of knowledge and experience in sport, health and fitness, leisure and physical education.
Emma worked as an advanced health and fitness instructor in the community delivering functional exercise programmes, sport and fitness workouts and training for all populations and has delivered advice and support for children, families and the general public on aspects of leading healthy lifestyles from; nutrition to physical activity to psychology, rehabilitation and sport specific training and may other areas.
Emma is hoping to become a key member of the York City Knights team throughout North Yorkshire in her time at the club. To find out more about Emma and the rest of the York City Knights Community team please visit the Knights' new Community website on www.yckfoundation.com
Kids Club and Website Work for Knights - York Press - Saturday 24th July 2010
The chaps in the York City Knights community development team have been busy on and off the field recently.
On top of their usual work, they are getting geared up for their Knights Holiday Club during the school holidays, and they have launched a new website promoting the Knights Foundation charity and the work it does in the community.
The Knights are running two ‘Schools Out!’ clubs over the summer, with first team stars Chris Thorman, the former England captain, and York-born Jack Stearman among the coaching team. Each holiday club – basically a multi-sport programme encouraging children to stay active over the summer – will run for three consecutive days and each is based at Heworth ARLC. The dates are August 3, 4 and 5; and August 24, 25 and 26.
The price for children who book for all three days is £30 which the Knights believe make it one of the cheapest holiday clubs in York. That price also includes a free gift. The daily price, meanwhile, is £12 per day.
Adam Prentis, the Knights community development manager, said: “Over summer holidays it’s quite easy for children to sit in front of the television. The holiday club is a chance to have fun, have some exercise and make new friends.
“It is also a great opportunity to meet Chris Thorman and Jack Stearman, both Knights players with very different backgrounds. “Chris has many years of experience playing in Super League and captaining England, while Jack is a local lad who went to school in York and is a product of New Earswick All Blacks ARLC.”
To book a place, phone the Knights office on 01904 767 404.
On top of their usual work, they are getting geared up for their Knights Holiday Club during the school holidays, and they have launched a new website promoting the Knights Foundation charity and the work it does in the community.
The Knights are running two ‘Schools Out!’ clubs over the summer, with first team stars Chris Thorman, the former England captain, and York-born Jack Stearman among the coaching team. Each holiday club – basically a multi-sport programme encouraging children to stay active over the summer – will run for three consecutive days and each is based at Heworth ARLC. The dates are August 3, 4 and 5; and August 24, 25 and 26.
The price for children who book for all three days is £30 which the Knights believe make it one of the cheapest holiday clubs in York. That price also includes a free gift. The daily price, meanwhile, is £12 per day.
Adam Prentis, the Knights community development manager, said: “Over summer holidays it’s quite easy for children to sit in front of the television. The holiday club is a chance to have fun, have some exercise and make new friends.
“It is also a great opportunity to meet Chris Thorman and Jack Stearman, both Knights players with very different backgrounds. “Chris has many years of experience playing in Super League and captaining England, while Jack is a local lad who went to school in York and is a product of New Earswick All Blacks ARLC.”
To book a place, phone the Knights office on 01904 767 404.
Sand hutton leavers meal - Tuesday 20th July 2010
Norris the Knight and 1st team player and community development officer jack stearman were invited, as special guests, to a special leavers lunch for year 6 pupils at Sand Hutton Primary school. They were invited due to the amount of work they do with the school. Norris was up to his usual mischief at the meal where he and Jack were signing autographs and enjoying their meal. After the meal they went outside to play a little bit of rugby with the year 6s themselves. Everyone at the Knights would like to wish all the Year 6s the best of luck for their future, and hope they come visit the Knights at all their home games.
Burnholme Cluster Festival Tournament - Wednesday 7th July 2010
Children in years 4 and 5 from Hemplands Primary school and Derwent, took part in a rugby festival held at Heworth rugby league club. This comes off the back of a programme where each child has received 6 weeks coaching prior to the event, by the York City Knights community Development Staff. The idea of the programme is to introduce children to their local amateur club, as well as introducing them to rugby league and giving them the chance to play in a competitive and fun environment. Parents watched on as Adam Prentis and Jack Stearman took all the children for a 30 minute coaching sessions, which was then followed by a 30 minute game, played in a great spirit, with some great quality tries being scored by both teams. There were definately some stars of the future on show.
Marston Moor Finals Day at Heworth RLFC - Saturday 3rd July 2010
The Finals of The Marston Moor contact festivals took place at Heworth RLFC - Elm Park Way, on Saturday, with many parents coming down to watch on a really bright and warm day. The Action was just as good, as the games took place, and the competition was of a really high standard and it was great to see every who took part in great spirit.
Adam Prentis, Development manager said "It is a shame that there can only be one winner to events like these, it has been such a great day."
There was plenty of talent on show, with some great teamwork, and indivdual skill, causing some well worked try. We would just like to say a big congratulations to the winning teams and also a huge thank you to everyone who made the day possible.
The winners of the Marston Moor trophies are, as follows: Year 6: Wheldrake; Year 7: Settle; Year 8: Archbishop Holgate; Year 9: York High; Year 10: York High.
Adam Prentis, Development manager said "It is a shame that there can only be one winner to events like these, it has been such a great day."
There was plenty of talent on show, with some great teamwork, and indivdual skill, causing some well worked try. We would just like to say a big congratulations to the winning teams and also a huge thank you to everyone who made the day possible.
The winners of the Marston Moor trophies are, as follows: Year 6: Wheldrake; Year 7: Settle; Year 8: Archbishop Holgate; Year 9: York High; Year 10: York High.
Newton on Derwent Park Opening.- Saturday 3rd July 2010
York City Knights' Player Jack Stearman Opened a Park at Newton on Derwent's annual Family Fun Day. Jack said of the day; " It is great to be involved with such a family event. We at the Knights love to get involved in any community events throughout North Yorkshire." Jack was opening a zip wire, funded by the lottery fund. Everyone in the village was excited for the new equipment to be officially opened.
Knights Coach 500 Children in 1 day- Tuesday 29th June 2010
The York City Knights Community Development team had a busy day today, as they managed to coach over 500 children in 1 day. Development Manager Adam Prentis said " It is brilliant that we can reach out to so many children and the feedback was great from the children and the teachers. We are always looking to build up partnerships in the community and hopefully the children have enjoyed today alot, and some will start taking up the sport outside of school and also come down and support the Knights."
One teacher said " It is great that the Knights will give up their time for days like today and the children always enjoy being coached by the team."
The day consisted of 3 hours at Lakeside primary school where there was a sports celebration day, with other sports on display such as football, athletics and kick boxing, as well as rugby league. There was another celebration day in the afternoon at Elvington Primary school, consisting of the same format. Chris Thorman also spent the day at Woodthorpe primary coaching over 100 children there and Jack managed to squeeze in a lunch time coaching session at Hemplands in between the celebration days.
One teacher said " It is great that the Knights will give up their time for days like today and the children always enjoy being coached by the team."
The day consisted of 3 hours at Lakeside primary school where there was a sports celebration day, with other sports on display such as football, athletics and kick boxing, as well as rugby league. There was another celebration day in the afternoon at Elvington Primary school, consisting of the same format. Chris Thorman also spent the day at Woodthorpe primary coaching over 100 children there and Jack managed to squeeze in a lunch time coaching session at Hemplands in between the celebration days.
Archbishop of Holgate Celebration Sports Day
The York City Knights development team went into Archbishop of Holgate Secondary school to deliver some Fun Rugby Sessions to pupils of the school. There were a variety of sports on offer, and the children went round each one, in 30 minute intervals enjoying a taster from each sport, ranging from Rugby League to Rock climbing, ultimate frisbie to clay pigeon shooting and kick boxing to Golf. The day was deemed a success by all involved with many interested children wanting to take rugby up outside of school.
Archbishop of Holgate Primary school Cluster Festival
Every lunch time in the last half term, the York City Knights community team have been going into primary schools in the Archbishop of York Secondary School cluster; Osbaldwick, Lord Deramore's, St Lawrence's and Badger Hill. The aim of these lunch time sessions is to get children involved in rugby league and at the end of them run a festival in order for the children to play tag rugby against each other.
This Festival was held at Archbishop of Holgate schools, where over 150 took part in the tag rugby games. Every child enjoyed the occasion and we hope to see some of these players playing outside of school as well.
This Festival was held at Archbishop of Holgate schools, where over 150 took part in the tag rugby games. Every child enjoyed the occasion and we hope to see some of these players playing outside of school as well.
