York Knights have announced that a locally based ownership consortium has agreed to acquire a controlling stake in the club. The new partnership is led by York entrepreneur David Dickson and members of his family, and 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 formalities and awaiting final approval from the Rugby Football League. The timing of the takeover coincides with a historic period for the club. At the conclusion of last season, York Knights secured promotion to the Super League for the first time in their history, a milestone that has already seen them settle into a 12th‑place position 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 on this year’s ladder. In conjunction with the ownership change, there have been notable shifts in the club’s executive structure. Long‑time chairman and chief executive officer Clint Goodchild has stepped down from his dual roles. The club’s existing 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 formal statement from York RLFC expressed gratitude toward Goodchild, noting, "The club would like to put on record our appreciation and thanks to Clint Goodchild for his time as custodian of the club. His vision, ambition and drive saw the club progress during his tenure at an incredible pace." The statement went on to highlight the remarkable achievements that have followed a recent re‑branding effort, including York Valkyrie's consecutive Betfred Women’s Super League titles and York Knights’ triumph in the AB Sundecks 1895 Cup at Wembley, capped by their historic promotion to the Betfred Super League for the 2026 season.
The announcement also underscored the pride these successes have generated across the city of York. "The rapid growth and recent successes of the club have brought immense pride to the city," the statement read.
"The incoming ownership group is fully committed to enhancing the club's future, building on these strong foundations, and unlocking York Knights' true potential." Over the next few weeks, the new owners plan to outline a detailed strategic plan and vision as the 2026 season draws to a close and preparations for 2027 begin. Goodchild, reflecting on his tenure, 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 transition arrives at a time when broadcasting arrangements for the Super League are also evolving. Sky Sports has secured the rights to air every Super League match live throughout the season, offering two matches per round as exclusive live events, while the remaining five fixtures will be available via Sky Sports+. This expanded coverage promises to bring the excitement of York Knights' inaugural top‑flight campaign to a broader audience across the United Kingdom and beyond.
Beyond the immediate on‑field implications, the new ownership group has signaled a broader ambition to deepen community ties and invest in grassroots development. Plans being discussed include upgrading training facilities, expanding youth academy programs, and creating new community outreach initiatives aimed at encouraging participation in rugby league among young people in York and the surrounding region. By leveraging the club’s recent successes, the owners hope to attract additional sponsorship and partnership opportunities that will provide sustainable financial backing for long‑term growth. The club’s supporters have also been invited to play an active role in shaping the future.
The statement mentioned upcoming fan forums and consultation sessions where supporters can share ideas, voice concerns, and contribute to the strategic roadmap. This collaborative approach reflects a modern governance model that seeks to balance commercial objectives with the cultural and emotional significance of the club to its loyal fan base.
In summary, the acquisition of a majority share by a locally rooted consortium marks a pivotal chapter for York Knights and York Valkyrie. With a clear commitment to building on recent triumphs, a refreshed executive team, and a strategic vision that emphasizes both elite performance and community engagement, the club is poised to consolidate its place in the Super League while nurturing the next generation of rugby league talent. The upcoming weeks will reveal detailed plans, but the message is unmistakable: York RLFC is entering a new era of ambition, stability, and shared success.