Before you read Chris Tate's message below, on behalf of the Club, I would like to express my thanks to Chris for all his efforts over the past 2 years.

Being Captain is a 7 day a week job and he has approached the position with great determination and enthusiasm. The high points and downsides are all the more acute when you are Captain and he has experienced many of these.

We all look forward to seeing Chris on the field next season where I know that his experience can only help the Club's performance.

Alan Swain

Director for People

Final Message

Chris Tate

I thought it best to inform you all that with a heavy heart I have decided to step down as Captain of this amazing rugby club.

The decision has been based on numerous reasons that I have discussed with my family and team mates. But for the last 2 years I have lived and breathed our great sport, day and night plotting and planning for every aspect of the teams’ ins and outs.

Due to work commitments and my developing career I just felt that I couldn’t give that much attention to the role and as captain that’s not good enough.

The job requires all of you and if you’re not able to give that then it’s time to hold your hands up.
I feel exhausted after this long season, which is part and parcel of being skipper, but I feel the time is right for someone new to carry the torch from me.

I’ve been honoured to have been able to call myself captain.

I’ve seen a complete mixed bag of experiences and had every single emotion whilst doing it.
I’ve never been happier than when we regained promotion, back to where we should have been. Though, my one main regret is that I was never able to clasp my hand around some new silver for our club house.

The Mansfield final was truly heart breaking, and I’ve probably never been as disappointed as after the Glossop game, but that’s competitive sport.

There are massive changes afoot at the club. There will be new faces throughout, coaches and players. But this shouldn’t falter our progress as a team.

If we all unite we can become a dominant force again as we were years past.

I’d like to think if anything I’ve made a difference with the club, because this club has made a difference to me. And when needed I will always put body and soul on the line for it.
Whoever is lucky enough to be elected as my successor I will back them all the way.

So thank you all for being with me along the way.

I’m now going to relax and look forward to a new beginning as a player in a very exciting time for this club.

Thank You All

Tatey