Welcome to the start of the season which we hope will be a successful one.
The club ended in the top five at the end of last season, our highest placed position ever. It was a sterling effort by all concerned at the club. But for injuries resulting in a couple of stuttering performances in the final games, we would have finished second and gained promotion.
Summer saw Dave Sonia, our coach, returning to his roots at Morley in a well deserved coaching capacity, and we wish him well. Duncan Barbour and Andrew Lund followed him there and while we will miss their combined presence in the pack, we also wish them every success in their new challenge.
Several of our stalwart pack members will also be missing from the new season lineup. Mark "Woolfie" Woolford and Dave "Tottie" Stead having reached the big 40 have decided to call it a day. Thanks guys for your efforts over the years and for providing some memorable moments. Former captain Chris Walsh and Kalem Senior , both important elements in the storming pack, will also be missing from the team. We thank them for their contributions to the club and the recent successes on the field.
In the backs, former captain Michael "Ashy" Ash has also gone to Morley, while standoff Will "Stanny" Stanfield has gone back to his first love boxing, having started a training club at Kellingley for aspiring youngsters. Chris "Charlie" Charlton, stalwart fullback, has also hung up his boots and is helping coach the teams. We wish you all success in your new endeavours.
So in short we start the season with a new pack, perhaps short on first team experience but not short on skill or effort. I'm sure you will carry on the long tradition of strong forward play for which Knottla are renowned. The rearranged back line is pacey and sure to acquit itself well.
So bring the season on......
Ned
