York City Knights secure James Ford for next three seasons
The 35 year old will become the Knights' first ever full time coach.
York City Knights have made a major statement of intent by securing the services of highly sought after Head Coach James Ford for the next three seasons.
The new and improved deal will see the 35 year old England Academy assistant - regarded as one of the best young British coaches in the game - become York City Knights first ever full time head coach from this September, until the end of the 2021 season.
A former Sheffield, Castleford, Widnes and York centre in his playing days, Ford took over the reins at the Knights after hanging up his playing boots at the end of 2014, and has led the team to three consecutive League 1 play-off semi-finals, plus the 2016 League 1 Cup final.
The Knights longest serving head coach recently achieved the milestone of 100 games in charge of the Minster city club.
Commenting on the new deal, Ford said:
“It was a big decision for me to take a full time role in the game, but one I’m very excited about.
"I'm very proud to be head coach of York City Knights and I'm proud of the progress that club is making on and off the field.
"There's always been potential in the city and we’re heading in the right direction. The clubs feels ready to take that next step and I’m honoured to have that responsibility.”
As part of his new full time remit, Ford will help the club continue to grow the community game in North Yorkshire, and will work with sponsors to promote and impact on club partners to grow turnover, as well as spending more time on 1st team duties.
Knights Chairman Jon Flatman said:
“We’re delighted that James has committed to this new contract. There’s a commitment to ensure we've got a quality product and a competitive team on the field, and the head coach obviously plays a key role in making that happen.
"James has a big future in the game and we wanted to ensure that he plays a big part in York City Knights' future.
"His relationship with players and other people in the game is excellent and the club will continue to build on and off the field with James leading the way."