Back Row, Josh Bainbridge re signs for next season

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce that Josh Bainbridge has re-signed with the club for next season.

Bainbridge has been a huge addition to the squad this campaign, bringing a fearless physical edge and establishing himself as one of the side’s most reliable defenders. Alongside his on-field performances, he has also proven to be a strong leader within the group — a supportive and encouraging teammate who plays a big role in driving standards and boosting morale.

Yorkshire-born, Bainbridge was raised in the North East and played his junior rugby with Middlesbrough and Guisborough, before progressing to Yorkshire Carnegie. During his time there, he earned international honours with England at Under-17s, Under-18s, Under-19s and Under-20s level.

His professional career has seen him represent Leeds, Jersey and Coventry, making 45 appearances for the latter before stepping up to the Premiership. He joined Newcastle Falcons in the summer of 2023, making eight competitive appearances before linking up with Doncaster Knights.

Despite an injury-interrupted spell, Bainbridge has made 19 appearances for the Knights so far and continues to be a key part of the squad heading into next season.

Head Coach Darren Fearn said: 

“We really missed Bambi at periods this season. His experience, the focus he brings to performing week in, week out, and the standards he drives will be huge for the environment next season. He has intent in everything he does. Bambi is another Yorkshireman who takes real pride in representing the club.”

Josh Bainbridge said: 

“I’m thrilled to be staying at Castle Park. I feel our new model, the club direction & exciting signings will propel the club in a positive direction. Let’s finish this season on a high first.” 

Experienced prop Logovi’i Mulipola set for another season in Doncaster

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce that prop Logovi’i Mulipola has re-signed with the club for next season.

Able to play on both sides of the scrum, Mulipola is one of the most senior members of the squad and continues to bring a huge amount of experience to the group. His leadership and knowledge are invaluable, particularly in mentoring the club’s younger front-row players.

Beginning his career in his home country of Samoa, Mulipola earned his first international cap in 2009. He went on to represent Samoa more than 30 times and featured in two Rugby World Cups.

In 2011, Mulipola moved to England to join Leicester Tigers, where he enjoyed a long and successful spell. He made more than 130 appearances for the club and was part of the squads that won the Anglo-Welsh Cup in 2012 and the Premiership title in 2013.

Injuries impacted the latter stages of his Leicester career, but he remained a constant leader within the squad, providing experience, energy, and guidance to younger players coming through the system.

In 2018, he joined fellow Premiership side Newcastle Falcons, where he spent five seasons and made 63 appearances. During his time in the North East, he also had a loan spell with Gloucester Rugby during an injury crisis.

Following his time with Newcastle, Mulipola joined Montpellier Hérault as a Rugby World Cup Joker, providing short-term cover during the tournament, before later signing for Saracens until the end of the 2024 season as injury cover.

He has been with Doncaster Knights ever since and currently sits on 41 appearances for the club, with the milestone of 50 set firmly in his sights next season.

Head Coach Darren Fearn said:

“Logo offers so much for us in the set piece, not only through his actions on the field but also through what he brings to the group off it. He has been working with the academy front row, which is important for the club. We’ve seen in recent weeks Logo’s impact around the field.”

“The lazy narrative is that he’s getting on and is only good for the scrum and maul, however he put that to bed last week being named in Team of the Week after producing three turnovers and a line break. Needless to say, we’re delighted Logo will be with us for another season.”

Mulipola said: 

Grateful for another opportunity, all Glory to God. Here we go again Donny! Lea lei kaikai a time.”

Hooker, Nathan Langdon set to join Knights in 26/27

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce the signing of hooker Nathan Langdon, who joins the club from Sale FC.

Langdon arrives with valuable experience across a number of levels of the game despite still being only 24 years old. During the 2024/25 season, he spent time with Premiership side Northampton Saints, where he had the opportunity to learn from top-level hookers, including his older brother and former Doncaster Knights player Curtis Langdon. He has also featured for Sale Sharks.

Earlier in his career, Langdon previously represented Loughborough Students and BUCS Super Rugby while studying for a degree in Sport and Exercise Science. During that period, he also made his Premiership Rugby Cup debut in 2022 while on loan with Leicester Tigers.

Head Coach Darren Fearn said:

“It’s brilliant to welcome Nathan to the club. For a 24 year old, he’s already got some good experience under his belt with the likes of Northampton and Sale.

“Nathan really fits the way we want to play and has worked previously with Fordy, who only has good things to say about him. He’s had a good season this year, and having spoken to people I trust within the game, they’ve spoken highly of him both as a bloke and as a player.”

Langdon also shared his excitement about joining the Knights:

“I’m really excited to get going with Doncaster. It’s a club with lots of history, with exciting things to come and I’m looking forward to being a part of the journey.” 

“I can’t wait to meet the lads and rip in to the new season.”

End Of Season Awards 2026 – Voting Now Open

The Doncaster Knights End Of Season Awards will take place on Saturday 9th May.

Following the conclusion of the Nottingham game, the final match of the regular season, head over to the concourse in the De Mulder Lloyd Stand to look back on the 2025-26 campaign and show your appreciation for the players and coaches at the End Of Season Awards.

A host of awards will be up for grabs, including Supporters Player of the Season and Try of the Season – which are decided by you.

The night is also an opportunity to thank players for their contributions and say farewell to players departing the club at the end of this season.

You can secure your spot with a Nottingham match ticket here.

Voting is now open

You can vote now for your Supporters Player of the Season here.

Vote for your Try of the Season here.

The deadline for voting is 5pm on Wednesday 29th April 2026.

Number 8 Jasper McGuire re-signs for next season

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce that back row forward Jasper McGuire has re-signed with the club for next season.

McGuire has enjoyed an outstanding campaign in Knights colours, making a successful transition to the number eight position. Having developed both physically and technically to suit the role, Jasper has come into his own this season and firmly established himself as a regular starter within the squad.

Bringing not only physicality but an excellent all-round skill set, his performances have been consistently impressive throughout the year. His impact was recognised early in the season when he claimed the club’s Knight of the Month award in back-to-back months.

Jasper’s love for rugby began at a young age, playing rugby union for his school while also featuring in rugby league for Newsome Panthers and Underbank Rangers.

In 2017, he joined the Yorkshire Academy and continued on the rugby union pathway. After two successful seasons in the academy set-up, McGuire moved to Northumbria University, where he spent four years competing in BUCS Super Rugby and further developing his game. He then moved across the city to Newcastle University, where he played for a year while completing a Masters in Urban Planning.

At the end of his Masters in 2023, Jasper was selected for the England Students squad, managed by forwards coach Darren Fearn, and signed his first professional contract with Premiership side Saracens in April of the same year. He later spent time on loan with Ampthill, making 13 appearances across the Championship and Premiership Cup.

Now on 40 caps for the Knights, we are delighted Jasper will be staying and hitting that half a century milestone here next season. 

Head Coach Darren Fearn said:

“Jasper has been a standout performer for us this season. His transition from prop to No8 has been really positive, and with a full pre season under his belt, he’ll be a real force. His performances attracted interest from a number of Championship clubs, but as a proud Yorkshireman, he was always keen to stay with us. I’ve worked with Jasper since he was 18 and can’t speak highly enough of him.”

Jasper McGuire said: 

“I’m really happy and proud to have re-signed at Doncaster for next year. I’m looking forward to the new chapter and seeing what next season brings. We have a great group of players and staff and next year will hopefully produce the results that everyone associated with the club can be proud of.”

Thank you, Tyson Lewis

Doncaster Knights can confirm that Tyson Lewis will leave the club at the conclusion of the current season, bringing to an end an incredible 14-year association with Castle Park.

As he prepares for a new chapter, Lewis shared the following message with supporters, staff and everyone connected to the club:

“After 14 incredible years, the time has come for me to move on to a new chapter.

I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has been part of this journey. To the fans, your unwavering support, encouragement and passion have meant more to me than words can truly capture. You’ve been the heartbeat behind everything we’ve achieved.

To our benefactors and supporters , thank you for your generosity and commitment over the years. Your belief made so much possible, and I will always be grateful for the role you’ve played in shaping this journey.

It hasn’t just been about the work; it’s been about the people, the memories, and the shared moments that will stay with me forever.

As I step forward into something new, I wish each and every one of you continued success, happiness, and fulfilment in the years ahead. I have no doubt that the best is still to come.

Thank you for everything.”

A hugely respected figure both on and off the field, Tyson first joined the club as a player and went on to make more than 200 appearances in Knights colours, becoming one of the most recognisable and admired players across the Championship during his career.

During his playing days, Tyson was also part of a memorable moment in rugby history when he scored against Old Albanians to set the Guinness World Record for the fastest try ever scored in a professional game. He was also a part of the historic Knights squad that defeated Bristol Bears at Ashton gate in the second leg of the Championship play off. 

Following his retirement from playing, Tyson seamlessly moved into coaching, continuing his commitment to Doncaster Knights as an Assistant Coach with the first team before taking on the role of Head Coach of the Academy. Under his leadership, the Academy enjoyed immediate and significant success, and Tyson has remained fully dedicated to developing the next generation of Knights talent ever since.

Having been part of the club through its transition from Doncaster Rugby Football Club into Doncaster Knights, Tyson’s impact has spanned multiple eras and his contribution to the club cannot be overstated.

Club President Steve Lloyd and Club Chairman Tony De Mulder said:

“Tyson has given 14 years of dedicated service to this club, and we are incredibly grateful for everything he has contributed to Doncaster Rugby Football Club and Doncaster Knights.

He has been a tremendous servant to the club, from his outstanding playing career with over 200 appearances, to his work in the coaching set-up and the contribution he brought to the Academy programme.

Tyson was there during the transition from Doncaster Rugby into Doncaster Knights and has played an important role in shaping the club throughout that journey. He was also a well-known and highly respected player across the Championship circuit, and of course, holds a unique place in our history with the Guinness World Record for the fastest try in a professional game.

As a person, Tyson will be greatly missed by players, staff and supporters alike. His character, commitment and passion for the club have been clear to everyone who has worked with him.

We would like to thank Tyson for everything he has done for this club and wish him and his family all the very best for the future. We are certain there will always be a warm welcome waiting for him at Castle Park, with a beer in hand.”

Everyone at Doncaster Knights would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Tyson for his remarkable service and dedication over the last 14 years, and we wish him every success in the next chapter.

Tyson through the years:

Centre Harry Yates set to join Doncaster Knights for 26/27

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce the signing of centre Harry Yates from Ealing Trailfinders.

Although registered with Ealing Trailfinders, Yates has spent the last two seasons on loan with Cornish Pirates, where he established himself as a regular starter. Bringing physicality week in, week out, he has also crossed for seven tries so far this season.

Yates began his rugby journey at Harrogate Rugby Club, making 23 first-team appearances. He attended Harrogate Grammar School, where he captained the 1st XV, before continuing his development at Northumbria University and later Darlington Mowden Park. He has also represented both Apache 7s and Speranza 7s.

The move to Doncaster Knights brings Yates back to the north, and he spoke to the club about what returning home means to him.

“It’s close to home, it’s a club with a lot of history, and it’s a team that’s going places. To be a part of that would be something special.”

“It’s great to be back up north. There’s something different in the air up here, and there’s no place like home.”

When asked to describe himself as a player, Yates replied with one word:

“Confrontational.”

He also reflected on some key moments in his career that have helped him develop as a player.

“Our recent win against Chinnor at home was awesome. Playing away at Gloucester last season and coming up against Exeter Chiefs were great experiences too. I’ve had a lot of good wins with Pirates over the years.”

Head Coach Darren Fearn said:

“When I spoke to Harry about coming back home to Yorkshire, you could immediately sense how much it meant to him. I remember him tearing up National One a few years ago, which led to him signing for Ealing. Since then, he’s had two strong seasons with Cornish Pirates. He’s always been a player we’ve highlighted because of his ability. We’re really pleased he’ll be in a Knights shirt next season.”

Rotary Club of Doncaster Knights Become De Mulder Lloyd Stand Board Sponsors

Doncaster Knights is pleased to announce the Rotary Club of Doncaster Knights as the first De Mulder Lloyd Stand pitchside board sponsors this season.

New for the latter half of 2025-26, the board is in prime viewing location for the cameras associated with Clubber TV, the Elior Champ Rugby league’s official streaming partner this season.

The Rotary Club of Doncaster Knights was launched two years ago this month with the aim of making a real difference in our community, helping improve life chances and providing help and support where it is most needed. The Club holds regular fundraisers for the Doncaster Knights Foundation at Doncaster Knights Home games, as well as supporting the Doncaster Knights Mini Juniors.

They also raise funds for other local charities including the Doncaster Hygiene Bank and Support Dogs. Always planning exciting projects, fundraisers and socials, they host fortnightly meetings at Castle Park on alternate Thursday mornings and are always looking for new members to join the club and get involved in raising money and supporting good causes.

The Rotary Club of Doncaster Knights are part of Rotary International, a global network of 1.4 million individuals who volunteer their time, skills and resources to solve local and international humanitarian challenges. The Rotary Club of Doncaster Knights’ recent fundraisers included the spectacular Rock the Season event held at the Corn Exchange, featuring internationally renowned rock violinist, Daisy Jopling and talented musicians from Hill House School. The Club is organising an even bigger and better Rock the Season event week in December 2026 and they are currently looking for sponsors who would like to support the initiative.

The Rotary Club of Doncaster Knights has recently sponsored one of the new large pitchside perimeter advertising boards in front of the main De Mulder Lloyd Stand. Close to the centre of the stand, it stands out prominently on Clubber TV broadcasts, the official Elior Champ Rugby streaming partner who are covering every league match this season. Matches are streamed, from the Alti Access gantry on East Terrace to national and international audiences. The advertising board is also seen by fans, spectators and visitors to Castle Park as well as being regularly photographed by match photographers and appearing on Doncaster Knights’ social media, with 70,000+ followers across all platforms.

Phil Wilbourn, President of the Rotary Club of Doncaster Knights said: “We’re incredibly proud to see the Rotary Club of Doncaster Knights represented in such a prominent position at Castle Park. As a Club built on community, collaboration and giving back, this opportunity allows us to raise greater awareness of the work we do while strengthening our connection with the Knights and their supporters. Being visible on matchdays and through Clubber TV’s coverage helps us to raise our profile so that we can continue growing our network and supporting initiatives that truly make a difference.” 

Tracey Owen, Head of Commercial at Doncaster Knights added: “We’re delighted to welcome the Rotary Club of Doncaster Knights as our first De Mulder Lloyd Stand pitchside board sponsor. The Rotary Club plays a vital role in supporting both the local community and the Knights Foundation, so it’s fantastic to be able to provide them with a platform that reflects their impact. With the added exposure from Clubber TV this season, this partnership offers real visibility and we’re proud to be working alongside an organisation so closely aligned with our values.”

Rotary Club of Doncaster Knights Advertising Board

If you are interested in sponsorship at Doncaster Knights, please contact Tracey Owen via email, [email protected].

Anyone interested in joining the Rotary Club of Doncaster Knights contact Phil Wilbourn via email at [email protected]

 

Knights sign twin props Callum and Connor Hancock for 26/27 season

Doncaster Knights are pleased to announce the signings of twins, Callum Hancock and Connor Hancock, from Newcastle Red Bulls.

The duo are both props, with Callum playing tighthead and Connor playing loosehead. Both are Yorkshire born and bred, having played at Dinnington RFC growing up before moving on to play at Leeds Beckett University. During their time playing BUCS, they formed part of a notorious front row which won more than 100 scrum penalties during the 2023–24 season.

Both were named in the BUCS Super Rugby Team of the Season for 2023–24 and played for England Students in the spring of 2024 against French Universities before signing full-time with Newcastle.

The 25-year-olds have gained valuable experience during their time at Newcastle, and we are excited about the addition of two talented props.

Callum said: “I’m excited for the opportunity to play for the Knights, I’ve worked under Daz and Nez at England students and they are 2 coaches that get the very best out of me, absolutely buzzing for the season ahead.”

Connor said: “I cant wait to get started, I’m excited to work with daz and nez again, working with them at England students got the very best out of me. I feel honoured to sign for my home town club, I can’t wait to rip in and play infront of the castle park crowd.”

Head Coach Darren Fearn said:

“Anyone who knows Con and Cal will understand straight away the type of characters they are. On the field, they’ve spent the last two seasons with the Red Bulls after coming through Leeds Beckett, gaining experience in Premiership and European rugby. As proud Dinnington lads, they’ll be a great addition to not only the squad but the wider club.”

Doncaster Knights welcome One Adoption South Yorkshire to London Scottish match

Doncaster Knights were joined by guests from One Adoption South Yorkshire for Saturday’s match against London Scottish.

One Adoption South Yorkshire are the regional adoption agency for South Yorkshire. They are made up of the adoption services at Barnsley Council, City of Doncaster Council, Rotherham Council and Sheffield City Council, working together to provide adoption services across South Yorkshire.

Their priority is to find loving, stable, permanent homes for children in local authority care in the South Yorkshire region. They provide training and support to people who are wanting to adopt a child right the way through the process. They have expert social work staff on hand to provide guidance and advice for those who are wanting to know more about adoption. They carry out assessment and training for people wishing to adopt, as well as finding families for children needing adoption and providing adoption support. One Adoption also work with adopters, adopted children, birth families, the voluntary and private sectors to deliver a range of adoption support services. 

As part of their experience at Saturday’s match they had the opportunity to meet members of the Doncaster Knights before being engrossed in a training session from Jordan and Ryan Olowofela, who this weekend have extended their time at the Knights for the 2026-27 season.

The Knights also presented One Adoption with a signed Doncaster Knights away shirt.

Andrew Mouse, Adoption Engagement at One Adoption said: “We have had some fantastic feedback so far from the families involved. Thank you to the club for making such a memorable day for us.”

To top off their day, Knights secured a 34-5 victory.

To find out more about One Adoption visit their website here.

Doncaster Knights Golf Day

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce the club’s annual Golf Day is taking place on Friday 10th July.

After some extremely successful days in recent times, we are pleased to announce this year’s edition will take place at Styrrup Golf and Country Club.

The event will consist of a four-man team competition, with the option of a Doncaster Knights player featuring on your team.

The course will consist of 18 holes of golf with breakfast included and a sumptuous two course meal concluding the day’s play.

Prizes will be given out, as well as participants receiving goody bags. There are fantastic prizes available in the raffle which will also be held during the occasion. 

Full event sponsorship and individual hole sponsorship is available. To register for your place contact Tracey on [email protected].