Rugby League News: Mark Applegarth Returns as York Knights Head Coach in Restructuring Move
In a significant restructuring move, the York Knights have announced the appointment of Mark Applegarth as their new head coach, following the transition of existing head coach Andrew Henderson to a new role as the club’s head of rugby operations and development.
Applegarth, who previously spent three seasons with the Knights during his playing career, has returned to the game after leaving Wakefield Trinity at the end of last season. The club’s chairman, Clint Goodchild, expressed his excitement about Applegarth’s appointment, highlighting his ability to develop young players, motivate teams, and his determination to succeed.
“Mark has shown he can develop young players, can motivate teams, is hungry for success, has shown grit and determination and, importantly, is a former York player with over 100 appearances,” Goodchild said.
As part of the restructuring, Henderson will now oversee all rugby operations at York, with the club also planning to introduce a brand-new RFL-licensed academy in 2026. Goodchild praised Henderson’s first-hand experience in developing player pathways and his knowledge of the challenges faced in a part-time environment.
“His first-hand experience in developing player pathways at all levels, his knowledge of the challenges that come with coaching in a part-time environment and the experience of being in a successful full-time system are exceptional. I have no doubt Andrew is the right man to build a system that will feed talent into the club via a successful Academy for generations to come,” Goodchild added.
The club’s focus on building a successful academy aligns with their commitment to developing homegrown talent and strengthening community relationships in York.
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