MARK APPLEGARTH believes York Knights can reach another level under new owner David Dickson.
A locally-based group, led by the prominent York businessman, reached an agreement to acquire a majority shareholding from Clint Goodchild, who had owned the club since the beginning of 2022, in August.
After securing a commendable tenth-place finish in their inaugural Super League season on half the central funding, the club has retained 14th place in the club grading rankings, securing their place in the top-flight for another season.
And Applegarth believes that the support of the new owners, coupled with the high-profile arrivals of Australian ace Cameron McInness, veteran Zak Hardaker and Grand Final winner Max Jowitt, who will be complemented by the retention of a core of last season’s squad, will only see the Knights push on in 2027.
“We wouldn’t be here in Super League if it wasn’t for Clint, so you’ve got to give him credit there,” said Applegarth.
“With David coming in, it’s going to take things to the next level, there’s no two ways about that.
“But it’s not just going to be an overnight success. There’s a lot of hard work that needs to go into it.”
Despite moving parts in the background inevitably impacting on their season, York won nine of their 27 matches – notably beating reigning champions Hull KR on the opening day of the season and St Helens in August.
And Applegarth conceded: “I won’t lie, it’s been a difficult year on a number of fronts, but I’m really happy with how everyone has bought into what we’ve been trying to do and kept level heads about it.
“There’s been times this year where they could quite easily have had an excuse not to.
“But I’m just glad it (the ownership takeover) was finally completed.
“If you are going to do anything in this league, you do need financial backing, there’s no two ways about it. I’ve experienced both sides of it.
“The main thing is that with David it’s not just about success, it’s about leaving a legacy and building a club so that whenever I’m not here or whoever isn’t here, people will remember it and can build on it.
“I’m really excited for what the future holds.”
