York Knights have announced that a locally‑based ownership consortium has agreed to acquire a majority stake in the club. The new partnership is led by York entrepreneur David Dickson, together with his family, and the transfer of ownership for both the men’s side, York Knights, and the women’s side, York Valkyrie, is now moving through the necessary formalities before receiving final approval from the Rugby Football League.
The timing of the takeover comes on the back of a historic season for the club. York Knights secured promotion to the Super League for the first time at the close of last year and currently sit in 12th place in the top‑flight table.
Meanwhile, York Valkyrie have continued their dominance in the women’s game, clinching back‑to‑back Betfred Women’s Super League championships in 2023 and 2024 and currently occupying the third spot in this year’s league standings. In conjunction with the ownership change, there have been shifts in the club’s senior management. Long‑time chairman and chief executive officer Clint Goodchild has stepped down from his roles. The club’s general manager, Neil Gulliver, will assume the chief executive position, while board member Richard Larking will remain on the board as a director, providing continuity during the transition.
A statement released by York RLFC expressed gratitude toward Goodchild, noting, “The club wishes to formally thank Clint Goodchild for his service as the club’s custodian. His vision, ambition and drive propelled the organization forward at an extraordinary rate during his tenure.” The statement went on to celebrate the recent re‑branding of the club, which was quickly followed by on‑field triumphs: York Valkyrie captured consecutive Women’s Super League titles, and York Knights not only lifted the AB Sundecks 1895 Cup at Wembley but also earned promotion to the Betfred Super League for the 2026 season – a milestone never before achieved in the club’s history. The announcement highlighted the pride these achievements have brought to the city of York.
It emphasized that the incoming ownership group is fully committed to building on the strong foundations that have been laid, and to unlocking the full potential of York Knights. “Over the coming weeks the club will outline its strategic plans and vision as the 2026 season reaches its climax and preparations for 2027 begin,” the statement read. Goodchild offered a heartfelt farewell, saying, “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.” He added, “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 new owners have signaled that they intend to invest in both the sporting and community aspects of the organization. Plans include enhancing training facilities, expanding youth development pathways, and deepening engagement with local schools and charities.
By leveraging the club’s recent successes, the consortium aims to attract additional sponsorship and create a sustainable financial model that can support long‑term competitiveness in the Super League. From a commercial perspective, the club will also benefit from broader broadcasting exposure. Sky Sports has confirmed that it will broadcast every Super League match live this season, with two matches each round being shown exclusively on the main channel and the remaining five fixtures available via Sky Sports+.
This increased visibility is expected to raise the club’s profile nationally and provide additional revenue streams through media rights and advertising. Looking ahead, the club’s strategic roadmap will likely focus on consolidating its Super League status, expanding its fan base, and continuing the women’s team’s pursuit of further titles. The synergy between the men’s and women’s squads under a unified ownership structure could foster shared resources, joint marketing initiatives, and a cohesive brand identity that resonates throughout the region. In summary, the takeover by David Dickson’s local consortium marks a pivotal moment for York Knights and York Valkyrie.
With fresh leadership, a clear vision for growth, and a commitment to preserving the community spirit that defines rugby league in York, the club is poised to build on its recent historic achievements and strive for sustained success in the years to come.