Former Knight returns from Oz

York City Knights have announced that former fans favourite Luke Hardbottle will re-join the club at the end of his stint in Australia. The 24 year old back rower was a member of the 2010 Grand Final winning team and was known for his outstanding defensive capabilities, high levels of fitness and superb work rate. He will link up with the Knights in February once he returns from down under.

Hardbottle has signed a two year contract and will join what looks to be a quality back row for 2013, alongside another former Knight Jason Golden, recent Grand Final winner Sam Scott, and local trio Ed Smith, Tyler Craig and Joe Hemmings. The signing was once again supported by the Squad Builder Fund and Head Coach Gary Thornton was delighted with his latest recruit saying,

“I am delighted to have Luke back at the club for next season. This just about completes our forward pack, and with his tough tackling technique and tremendous work rate, he fits the bill perfectly for the type of player I’m looking for in the back row. He’s had a spell out in Australia, and that should have benefitted him no end, so I’m confident he will come back an even better player for 2013."

"Big thanks to John and Ian for making this happen. As soon as we found out he was available and looking to get a club back in England, they acted really quickly to sort out the deal and make it happen. Along with Jason Golden and Sam Scott we have a real solid feel to our back row, and one which will be as good as any in the division”

The Knights pre season programme begins with a team meeting on the 1^st November and the first training session on the 6^th November.

Remember you can help with recruitment for 2013 by purchasing your season ticket or vice president package as soon as possible, and/or by making a donation to the squad builder fund. This can be done by sending a cheque, made payable to YCK Squad Builder Fund, to the club office or using account details 77 71 32 (Sort Code), 16121468 (Account Number). Standing orders cannot also be set up. Mandates are available on the club website www.yorkcityknights.co.uk or via the club office.