Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce the signing of back row/lock Max Allen-Paver from Leeds Beckett University.

A young, ambitious, and highly promising talent, Allen-Paver joins the Knights after impressing in BUCS Super Rugby, where his performances consistently highlighted his athleticism, work rate, and all-round ability in the back row.

Originally from Dubai, Max developed his rugby with Dubai Exiles RFC, a club he was part of from the age of four. He is one of a select group of players to progress through every age-grade at the club before reaching senior and representative honours.

Known as ‘AP’ to his teammates and friends, Allen-Paver made his UAE & West Asia Premiership debut for Dubai Exiles against Bahrain in September 2022 at just 17 years old, showcasing his potential at a remarkably young age.

His performances quickly attracted wider attention and it came as no surprise when he earned selection for the UAE Under-18 Sevens squad. He travelled to Nepal to compete in the Asia Rugby Under-18 Sevens Championship, gaining valuable international experience and further enhancing his reputation as one of the region’s brightest young prospects.

After moving to England to study at Leeds Beckett University, Allen-Paver continued his development in the highly competitive BUCS Super Rugby competition, where he impressed with his physicality, athleticism, and desire to learn.

Now making the step into the Championship with Doncaster Knights, Allen-Paver arrives eager to continue his development and establish himself within the professional game. His ambition, work ethic, and potential make him an exciting addition to the Knights squad ahead of the new season.

Head of Recruitment Matt Harland said: 

“Max trained with us towards the end of last season and made a strong impression, particularly during his cameo appearance off the bench against Nottingham. Comfortable across the back-row and with experience in the second row, Max brings valuable versatility and depth to the squad. We’re excited to see how Max develops this season with us.”

Max said: 

“I’m really grateful for this opportunity with Doncaster Knights. Moving from the UAE to join Leeds Beckett three years ago, I never expected to be in this position. Looking forward to getting started and contributing wherever I can.”

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce that Semesa Rokoduguni has re-signed with the club for another season.

Arguably one of the most recognisable players in the squad, Rokoduguni continues to bring a wealth of experience, physicality, and professionalism to the Knights environment. Renowned throughout his career for his powerful hand-offs, explosive running, and ability to break through contact, he remains a dangerous attacking threat whenever he takes to the field.

A proud Army Rugby player, Rokoduguni balanced his rugby career alongside military service, rising to the rank of Lance Corporal and serving in Afghanistan. His remarkable journey is one that has earned admiration across both rugby and military circles.

The Fijian-born winger spent the majority of his professional career with Bath Rugby, where he became a club legend over a decade-long spell. Across 10 seasons in the West Country, he made 194 appearances and scored an outstanding 71 tries, cementing his place as one of Bath’s most popular modern-era players.

His form at club level also earned international recognition with England. Rokoduguni won four caps and scored four tries for his country, making his debut against New Zealand during the 2014 Autumn Internationals.

Since arriving at Doncaster Knights, Rokoduguni has not only contributed on the pitch but has also become a hugely influential figure off it. His humble nature, professionalism, and willingness to support others have made him an invaluable mentor to the club’s younger players.

Director of Rugby Sir Ian McGeechan said: “We are delighted to have him another year, his contribution in training as well as his impact in games adds so much value to the squad. A great role model.“

Jacob Ford has been with the Knights for the past season as Assistant Coach, specialising in coaching the squad backs.

Arriving as his brother Joe departed to take up a senior coaching role with Sale Sharks. Jacob’s enthusiasm for developing young talent has been rewarded by his appointment as  ‘Backs Transition Coach’ at the Sale Academy and the move will complete the family trio at the Sharks with brothers Joe and George.

Steve Lloyd comments that:

“Jacob has been a very popular and lively addition to the Knights coaching group over the past season. As with his brothers, his home is near to the Sale club and the Ford dynasty will continue to thrive there.

As the Academy Senior Coach at Sale, Doncaster Knights hope to work closely with Jacob as he develops talent going forward, but, in the meantime we wish him the very best in the next stage of his coaching career”.

Jacob says:

“Even though I have only been at the club since December I very much feel apart of the Knights family and I have made strong relationships along the way. I’m extremely grateful to Geech and Daz for the opportunity with the Knights and all the support they have given me this season. I would like to thank Steve, Tony and the rest of the board at Doncaster for all their support to the team this year. Also to the players who in times of adversity dug deep for the club and showed character and resilience in abundance, the sacrifices you make each week is a testament to you and the club. 

 

 

I feel like this is the right move for me in my career to continue my development as a young coach and to learn as much as possible. I very much will be a Knights supporter watching on and I wish the club and the players every success next season.”

With Jacob’s departure, Doncaster Knights are continuing to review several options now coming to fruition to appoint and rebuild a strong coaching team to work with existing quality players plus others yet to be confirmed.

Further announcements will be made in due course but the Club’s ambition continues unabated.

Doncaster Knights can confirm than Darren Fearn has accepted an offer to take up the role of ‘Transition Coach’ at Newcastle Red Bulls, from 1^st July 2026.

The new post will allow Darren to undertake a role he that he is well qualified for, back in his home city, working with the Academy and pathway providing home grown players to the Red Bull squad.

Steve Lloyd, President of Doncaster RFC, says:

“Darren has been a great guy to have around and in charge of the Knights. He is now ‘returning home’ to be near to his young family and to work within the Red Bulls coaching group. We wish him the very best and know that his relationship with Doncaster will endure at a professional and personal level”

Darren says:

“I would like to thank players and staff over the last two seasons. I’m grateful to Steve and the Board for their continued support, and to Geech, who has supported me on many fronts throughout my time at the club.

The opportunity with Newcastle Red Bulls felt like the right move for me, not just professionally but personally, allowing me to work closer to home and spend more time with my family. I wish the club nothing but success moving forward.”

Doncaster Knights would like to wish Darren good luck in his new role, and thanks him for all his contributions to the club over the past two seasons. 

With Darren now departing, Doncaster Knights are reviewing several options open to them to appoint and rebuild a strong coaching team to work with existing quality players and others yet to be confirmed.

Further announcements will be made in due course but the Club’s ambition continues unabated. 

Doncaster Knights is preparing to host an exciting summer showcase of rugby as the club welcomes a special UKAF (Uk Armed Forces) triple header in aid of Military vs Cancer.

The event will see the UKAF Under-20s, Women’s, and Men’s sides all take to the field against North of England select teams in what promises to be a thrilling day of competitive rugby and community spirit.

12:00pm KO – UK Armed Forces v England Counties U20 Divisional XV – U20

2:15pm KO – UK Armed Forces v North East Women’s XV – Womens

4:30pm KO – UK Armed Forces v North Select XV – Mens

Military vs Cancer is a grant-giving charity dedicated to providing emotional, financial, and practical support to serving military personnel, veterans, and their families affected by cancer. The event aims to raise awareness and vital funds for the charity while bringing rugby supporters together for a memorable summer occasion.

Fans can expect a packed day of action, entertainment, and high-quality rugby, with three fixtures showcasing some of the best Armed Forces talent in the country.

Supporters are encouraged to secure tickets early and help support a brilliant cause while enjoying a fantastic day out at Castle Park.

Season ticket holders of Doncaster Knights and military veterans are eligible for discounted tickets priced at just £5. Concession Tickets and U16’s Tickets are also £5, with General Admittance Tickets priced at £10. 

Click here to get tickets now!

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce the signing of fly-half Kieran Wilkinson from Caldy.

Wilkinson arrives at Castle Park with a wealth of experience, having already featured extensively in the Premiership. A composed and talented playmaker, he adds valuable leadership, game management, and attacking quality to the Knights backline.

Originally coming through the ranks at Sale Sharks while studying at Kirkham Grammar School, before making 33 first-team appearances for the Premiership side, including making his European debut during his time at the club. In 2019, Wilkinson also represented England U20s 

He later joined Leicester Tigers, where he had the opportunity to learn alongside and play with some of the game’s top players, further developing his skill set in a high-performance environment. During his time there, he also played alongside current Knight Alex Dolly’s brother, Nic Dolly.

Wilkinson then moved to Newcastle Falcons, where he made 11 appearances and scored 23 points before joining Caldy ahead of last season.

During his time with Caldy, Wilkinson enjoyed a standout campaign, playing a major role in a number of the club’s impressive and unexpected victories. His performances consistently caught the eye and highlighted his ability to control games at Champ level.

Now joining Doncaster Knights, Wilkinson brings proven quality and valuable experience as the club continues to strengthen ahead of the new season.

Head Coach Darren Fearn said: 

“Kieran’s CV speaks for itself, he’s a real talent. He caused us some real issues here earlier in the season and has been one of the standout fly halves in the league this year.”

“He has a really positive relationship with Fordy, which was a big factor for him joining the club. We know he’s had a number of offers from across the league, so we’re delighted he’s chosen to come here.”

Wilkinson said: 

“I’m really excited to be joining Doncaster Knights for the 2026/27 season. It feels like a great opportunity at the right stage in my career.”

“There’s real ambition around the club and I’m eager to get started, meet the squad and supporters, and play my part in a big season ahead.”

 

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce that winger Aidan Cross has re-signed with the club for the 2025/26 season.

Cross initially joined the Knights on a short-term loan from Scottish side Glasgow Warriors in January 2024 before remaining with the club for the rest of the campaign. He made an immediate impact, scoring four impressive tries in just seven appearances during his first spell in Knights colours. This meant the club kept him on for this season where he has continued to impress and develop. 

Blessed with fantastic pace and an excellent finishing ability, Cross quickly showed his quality out wide, earning himself a longer stay at Castle Park. Since then, he has continued to develop his game, learning from the experienced backs around him and fitting seamlessly into the Knights’ attacking style.

The 24-year-old previously featured for Glasgow’s ‘A’ squad during the 2024 FORSOC Super Series Sprint. Before that, he played his club rugby with Melrose and represented Southern Knights in Scotland.

Now fully committed to Doncaster Knights for the 2026/27 season, Cross will continue to add speed and attacking threat to the squad as the club builds for the future.

Head Coach Darren Fearn said: 

“It’s brilliant that Aidan is staying at the club. After an injury disrupted start to the season, he got his head down and worked hard to get into the team. He’s a great lad, really popular within the squad, and on the field he’s a real talent who knows exactly where the try line is.”

Cross said: 

“I’m delighted to be staying another year in Doncaster. I have grown really fond of the area, and I feel a real connection to both the club and the loyal fanbase. I’m really enjoying my rugby at the minute, learning off of the likes of Rocco and Telusa, and can’t wait to see how next year unfolds!”

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce the signing of prop Jake Ellwood from Cambridge RUFC.

A powerful front-rower weighing in at 120kg, Ellwood arrives at Castle Park with a wealth of CHAMP experience. A well-known figure within the league, he has previously represented Ealing Trailfinders, London Scottish, Ampthill Rugby, and most recently Cambridge RUFC.

Ellwood began his Champ journey with Ealing Trailfinders between 2017 and 2020 before moving on to London Scottish for two seasons. He later spent time with Ampthill Rugby before joining Cambridge ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, where he remained a key part of their squad.

Before this, Ellwood impressed in the BUCS Super Rugby competition while studying BSc IT with Business and later an MSc in Digital Marketing at Northumbria University. During this period, he also spent time in the Newcastle Falcons academy setup and earned representative honours with England Students.

Bringing size, experience, and strong set-piece ability, Ellwood adds further quality and depth to the Knights front row ahead of the new season.

Head Coach Darren Fearn said:

“Jake’s a very experienced prop who can play both sides of the scrum. After university he signed for Ealing, where he became a regular, before going on to play for a number of Championship clubs alongside work commitments.”

“Originally from Hartlepool, Jake’s delighted to be moving back North. I coached him when he was , so I can vouch for the type of person he is as well as the player, and he’ll be a great addition to the club.”

Ellwood said: 

“I’m buzzing to be joining Doncaster next season. When Daz reached out with the opportunity and to talk about Doncaster’s plans, it was a no brainer for me. He played a massive part in my rugby journey transitioning from BUCS into the Champ 8 years ago and it will be class to be back working with him and playing rugby in the North again! Doncaster is a club I’ve always had a huge amount of respect for and I can’t wait to get stuck in and be part of it.”

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce the signing of back row forward Louie Kirkham.

Kirkham joins the club as an exciting young talent, bringing real hunger, drive, and a willingness to learn and develop. Comfortable across the back row, he adds versatility and physicality to the Knights squad ahead of next season.

Louie impressed during his time in BUCS Super Rugby with Leeds Beckett University, where his performances consistently stood out. Prior to that, he progressed through the London Irish academy system and was contracted with the Premiership club before its unfortunate collapse.

Kirkham also earned selection for the England Students squad, where he played alongside fellow new signings the Hancock twins, as well as current Knight Jasper McGuire, who captained the side during that campaign. Those existing relationships should help him settle quickly into the environment at Castle Park.

Head Coach Darren Fearn said:

“Louie is a great addition to the club and joins us after graduating from Leeds Beckett. I worked with Louie previously with England Students, where he was a standout performer.”

“He came through the London Irish academy and was contracted there before the club folded. He’s a physical, robust back row who gives us a strong line out option and has the versatility to cover six, seven and eight. We’re delighted to have him at the club.”

Louie said: 

“I am really excited to join Doncaster and work with top coaches and players. It’s a great place to develop myself and I can’t wait to get started.”

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce that fly-half Morgan Bunting has re-signed with the club for next season.

Since returning to Yorkshire this campaign, Bunting has become an important member of the squad, bringing control, composure, and consistency to the Knights backline.

Born just down the road in Rotherham, Morgan began playing rugby from a young age at both school and club level with Wath-upon-Dearne. His talent quickly became evident, earning him a place in the Leeds Carnegie academy at the age of 14, where he remained a key part of the set-up until 2018.

Between 2018 and 2020, Bunting represented Yorkshire Under-20s and competed in two consecutive Jason Leonard Cups, the national county competition. In his first campaign, he helped Yorkshire lift the trophy in dominant fashion, including a 52-5 victory over Lancashire in the final. The following season, he was awarded the captaincy, although his time leading the side was unfortunately cut short by the pandemic.

Alongside his representative rugby, Bunting studied at Bishop Burton , where he played consistently. In his final year, he captained the first team, further demonstrating his leadership qualities.

After finishing college, Morgan signed his first professional contract with Nottingham, where he spent three successful seasons and made 63 appearances. He then returned to Yorkshire to join Doncaster Knights, a club already close to his family, with his father having represented the Knights nearly 100 times himself.

Bunting has now racked up 41 appearances, and established himself as a core member of the Knights squad. We are delighted he will be staying home another season. 

Head Coach Darren Fearn said:

“Bunny’s really stood out in the back end of the season and has made that 10 shirt his own. First and foremost, he loves the club. He’s been around it since he was a kid, watching his dad play, so it means a lot to him.”

“He competes hard, you’d expect nothing less from a Bunting. He’s at his best when he plays freely and backs what he sees in front of him. We’ve seen that over the last part of the season.”

Bunting said:

“To have the chance to play for Donny means a lot to me and my family and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue wearing the Doncaster shirt. I’m very excited for next season and what we can go on to achieve.”

Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce the signing of powerhouse Samoan prop Paul Masoe, who joins the club from Cambridge to strengthen the front row.

Masoe arrives at Castle Park after being a regular starter for Cambridge throughout the season. Despite a difficult campaign for the club overall, his scrummaging ability and physicality consistently stood out and caught the attention of many other Champ clubs. 

Impressive performances for New Zealand’s Marist club previously earned Paul international recognition with Junior Manu Samoa at Under-20 level.

Coming from a family with a strong rugby pedigree, Paul is the nephew of former All Black Chris Masoe, who enjoyed an outstanding professional career representing the likes of Wanganui, Taranaki, Hurricanes, Chiefs, Castres, Toulon, and Racing 92. Chris also claimed gold with the New Zealand Sevens squad at the 2002 Commonwealth Games.

Paul now makes the move to Doncaster Knights eager to continue developing his game and test himself in a new environment.

Head Coach Darren Fearn: 

“We’re excited to bring Paul into the club. He’s a young prop with Champ experience and Samoa U20s honours. He impressed against Ealing a few weeks ago and comes recommended by East Timor. Having Logo around the environment, with all his experience, will be huge for Paul’s development, a real role model.”

Speaking after signing for the club, he said:

“I’m really excited to join Doncaster Knights. I’ve heard a lot of good things about the club. It’s going to be a good challenge and a great opportunity to improve my rugby further. I’m really looking forward to it.”