York Knights Seek Resurgence Under New Head Coach Mark Applegarth
The York Knights have turned to a new leader in a bid to kickstart their Championship campaign, as the club parted ways with head coach Andrew Henderson and appointed Mark Applegarth to helm the team. This shakeup comes after the Knights have managed just 3 wins in their opening 10 matches, leaving them 14 points behind front-runners Wakefield Trinity.
Despite the rocky start, the Knights remain within striking distance of the playoffs, currently sitting 6 points behind the 6th-placed Bradford Bulls. Applegarth will be tasked with galvanizing the squad and engineering a strong finish to the season if they are to secure a spot in the top-six.
Wasting no time, the new head coach has already brought in reinforcements, with the Knights announcing the signing of former New Zealand Warriors hooker Sam Cook on a one-year deal. The 30-year-old, who has also represented Mackay Cutters, Newcastle Knights and France’s Racing Club Albi XIII, brings a wealth of experience to bolster York’s playing ranks.
“I’d only ever heard good things about the team, the Club and the City. When the opportunity came up, I was keen to jump at it and give it a red hot crack.” – Sam Cook
The hooker also highlighted his strong communication skills and desire to guide the team’s younger players.
York Chairman Clint Goodchild echoed the sentiments, stating:
“We’re excited to add Sam to the squad. He brings experience, presence and versatility. I have no doubt he will have a positive impact on the group as we prepare for the second half of the season.”
With the experienced Cook now on board and Applegarth at the helm, the York Knights will be hoping to mount a sustained push for the Championship playoffs in the coming weeks.
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