York Knights have announced that a new, locally‑based ownership consortium has agreed to acquire a majority stake in the club. The consortium is led by York entrepreneur David Dickson, who will join the venture alongside his family members. The transfer of ownership for both the men’s side, York Knights, and the women’s side, York Valkyrie, is currently moving through the necessary paperwork and awaits formal ratification by the Rugby Football League. The timing of the takeover is significant.
York Knights earned promotion to the Betfred Super League at the close of the previous season – a historic first‑time achievement for the club – and are currently positioned 12th in the top‑flight table. Meanwhile, York Valkyrie have cemented their reputation as a powerhouse in the women’s game, capturing back‑to‑back Betfred Women’s Super League championships in 2023 and 2024 and now sit third in this year’s standings. In conjunction with the ownership change, there have been notable shifts in the club’s executive structure. Long‑standing chairman and chief executive officer Clint Goodchild has stepped down from his dual role.
The club’s current general manager, Neil Gulliver, will assume the chief executive position, while board director Richard Larking will continue to serve on the board. A formal statement from York RLFC expressed gratitude to Goodchild, noting his "vision, ambition and drive" that propelled the club forward at an "incredible pace" during his tenure. The statement went on to highlight the remarkable progress made since the club’s recent re‑branding.
Following the new identity rollout, York Valkyrie secured consecutive Betfred Women’s Super League titles, and York Knights lifted the AB Sundecks 1895 Cup at Wembley before clinching promotion to the Super League for the 2026 season – a milestone that had never been reached before. The club emphasized that these achievements have brought “immense pride to the city” and that the incoming owners are fully committed to building on this momentum, strengthening the club’s foundations and unlocking its full potential. Looking ahead, the consortium promises to unveil a detailed strategic plan in the coming weeks. This roadmap will outline the club’s vision as the 2026 campaign draws to a close and preparations for the 2027 season commence.
The aim is to sustain on‑field success, expand community outreach, improve facilities, and ensure financial stability for the long term. Goodchild, reflecting on his time at the helm, said: "I brought ambition.
I leave with enough friendships and memories to last a lifetime. On arrival I knew York was a proud rugby league city, but I didn't know then how much this place, this club and its people would come to mean to me. To the players who sacrifice their bodies, the coaches who demand more, the staff who care far beyond their job descriptions, the volunteers who give their time, the sponsors and partners who believe, and the supporters who keep turning up – thank you for believing. Together we made history.
The club is in safe hands and has a very bright future. The club is lucky to have such a wonderful Yorkshire family involved and I am excited for this next York RLFC chapter." The announcement also touched on broadcasting arrangements for the upcoming Super League season. Sky Sports will air every match live, with two fixtures each round shown exclusively on the main channel and the remaining five matches streamed via Sky Sports+.
This comprehensive coverage aims to bring the excitement of top‑level rugby league to a wider audience across the country. Beyond the immediate news, the takeover signals a broader trend in rugby league where community‑focused investors are stepping in to secure the future of clubs with strong local ties. By keeping ownership within the region, the new group hopes to deepen connections with fans, schools, and local businesses, fostering a sense of shared ownership and pride. Plans are already being discussed to enhance youth development pathways, upgrade training facilities at the York Community Stadium, and create more inclusive fan experiences on match days.
In summary, the arrival of a York‑based ownership consortium, led by David Dickson, marks a new chapter for both York Knights and York Valkyrie. With executive reshuffles, a clear strategic vision, and continued media exposure, the club is poised to build on its recent triumphs and establish itself as a lasting force in both the men’s and women’s Super League competitions.