Doncaster Knights are delighted to announce that scrum-half Ollie Fox has re-signed with the club for next season.

Fox has been integral to the Knights this campaign, showing significant development from last season and continuing to grow into a key figure within the squad. His tempo, quick thinking, and game understanding have made him a crucial part of the team’s performances.

A Yorkshireman, Fox joined the Yorkshire Carnegie rugby academy at the age of 14. He went on to make his Championship debut for the Leeds-based side during the 2016/17 season.

His performances earned him a move to Premiership outfit Bath ahead of the 2019/20 campaign, where he made 21 first-team appearances across three seasons at The Rec. During this time, he also represented England at Under-19 and Under-20 level, featuring in both the U20s Six Nations and U20s World Cup.

Fox joined Ealing Trailfinders for the 2022/23 season before returning to Yorkshire and joining the Knights. This season, he reached the milestone of 50 appearances for Doncaster Knights, further cementing his place as a key member of the squad.

Head Coach Darren Fearn:

“Foxy’s taken a big step this year as a player and leader. He brings real tempo through how he sees the game, and we saw that on Saturday.

His kicking game has become a real strength of his, credit to the work with Fordy. Off the field, he’s a big presence in the group and does a lot in schools within the community. We’re all delighted to have foxy with us again next season.”

Fox said: 

“I’m really happy to be staying at Doncaster. Very grateful to be able to continue my career in Yorkshire. Looking forward to what’s to come.”

Doncaster Knights scored five tries on the road to secure a five-point victory over Caldy.

It was East Timor Viliamu who opened the scoring for the Knights. After a cagey first 10 minutes, Doncaster finally broke through. Ben Chapman pounced on an overthrown lineout before moving the ball quickly. Strong carries from Connor Edwards, Viliamu, and Rhys Tait propelled Donny to the 5m line, where Viliamu powered over to score. 0–5.

Edwards then relieved pressure following a long defensive set, winning a turnover at the breakdown to allow Doncaster to exit their 22 and build another attack.

The centre soon added a try of his own. A slick backline move saw the ball shipped out to Zach Kerr on the wing, who drew in the defender before offloading to Fox. Fox quickly moved it on to Edwards, who finished under the posts. Bunting added the extras. 0–12.

Fox then got on the scoresheet himself. He combined well with Jasper McGuire, who ran a superb line at pace to slice through Caldy’s defence. With Fox in support, McGuire returned the pass, allowing the scrum-half to cross the line. 0–17.

Fox continued to influence the game, assisting another try by picking the ball from the base of a breakdown and carrying around the corner before passing to Hopkinson, who powered over. Bunting converted. 0–24.

Caldy opened the scoring in the second half with quick reactions to a loose ball. They chipped ahead, regathered, and moved it through the hands to create space and score. The conversion was added. 7–24.

Doncaster responded with a Bunting penalty, followed by a superb try from Jordan Olowofela. Cross gathered the ball and offloaded to Olowofela, who showed great pace to finish from just over halfway. Bunting added the extras. 7–34.

The hosts hit back with a second try, driving their maul over in the corner. 12–34.

The Knights worked hard to maintain control, with Kerr producing an excellent 50:22 to relieve pressure.

Caldy claimed their final try by spreading the ball wide and advancing down the wing before an inside pass to a replacement hooker allowed them to finish in the corner. 17–34.

A late penalty from Russell Bennett ensured Doncaster had the final say of the match.

Full-time score: 17–37.

The Knights now turn their attention to the remaining game of the season. We face Nottingham at Castle Park on Saturday 9th May. Secure your tickets here.

Darren Fearn and Sir Ian McGeechan have named their squad to face Caldy on the road this weekend.

In the front row, props Logovi’i Mulipola and Cole Keith are named either side of hooker Ben Chapman. The second row features Adam Hopkinson and Morgan Jones, with regular captain Ben Murphy absent following the birth of his son.

In the back row, Rhys Tait and Josh Bainbridge start on the flanks, with East Timor Viliamu at number eight.

The replacement front row sees Corey Tait named at hooker, alongside props Conor Davidson and Lewis Thiede. Ehize Ehizode and Jasper McGuire are the other forwards on the bench.

Ollie Fox starts at scrum-half, with Morgan Bunting pulling the strings at fly-half. The centre partnership is this week’s captain, Connor Edwards and Joe Margetts, while last week’s hat-trick scorer Zach Kerr is named on the wing. Kerr is set to reach his 50th Doncaster Knights appearance this weekend. Ryan Olowofela returns to start at full-back, with Aidan Cross on the opposite wing.

Alex Dolly and Russell Bennett provide half-back cover on the bench, with Jordan Olowofela the remaining replacement.

SQUAD: 1. Logovi’i Mulipola,  2. Ben Chapman, 3. Cole Keith, 4. Adam Hopkinson, 5. Morgan Jones, 6. Rhys Tait 7. Josh Bainbridge, 8. East Timor Viliamu, 9. Ollie Fox, 10. Morgan Bunting, 11. Zach Kerr, 12. Connor Edwards (C) 13. Joe Margetts, 14. Aidan Cross, 15. Ryan Olowofela.

REPLACEMENTS: 16. Corey Tait, 17. Conor Davidson, 18. Lewis Thiede, 19. Ehize Ehizode, 20. Jasper McGuire, 21. Alex Dolly,  22. Russell Bennett, 23. Jordan Olowofela.  

Unavailable for selection: Josh Williams, Thom Smith, Telusa Veainu, Semesa Rokoduguni (Army duty), Ben Murphy (Paternity leave).

Unavailable loan players: Patreece Bell, Connor Hancock, Tye Raymont

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.” 

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.”

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.”

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.”

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.

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:

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.”

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.”

Twins, Jordan and Ryan, have both put pen to paper to remain at Doncaster Knights for another season.

The dynamic duo have brought experience, individuality, and excitement to the squad, with unmatched pace, confidence under the high ball, and sharp footwork making them a key part of the club’s DNA.

Jordan, who joined the club a season before his brother Ryan, was Doncaster Knights’ top try scorer during the 2024/25 campaign. A naturally gifted rugby player, Jordan signed for Leicester Tigers at just 19 years old.

In 2018, he enjoyed an outstanding year with the England U20s squad, representing his country in both the Six Nations and World Rugby U20 Championship. Jordan crossed the whitewash on several occasions in both tournaments, including a brace in the World Cup final against France, where England finished runners-up. He has also gained valuable experience overseas, spending time on loan with Super Rugby Pacific side Western Force, before later featuring for Newport Dragons.

Twin brother Ryan is no stranger to international honours either. A standout in the sevens format, he made his England debut at the Rugby Europe Grand Prix Sevens Series in Moscow in 2017, progressing onto the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series the following year.

During the 2018/19 season, Ryan scored 15 tries in 39 appearances for England and earned 64 sevens caps overall before linking up with Premiership side Northampton Saints at the end of the campaign.

In 2022, Ryan joined Jersey Reds, where he spent a season before moving to Nottingham Rugby. During the 2024/25 season, he finished as Nottingham’s top try scorer with 11 tries. This season, he has continued that form at Doncaster Knights, scoring seven tries in just 15 appearances and currently sitting as the club’s second highest try scorer.

Head Coach Darren Fearn said: 

“Ryan had just started to find his feet with the squad before his injury, which was really promising. He’s a clear talent and has benefited from Fordy coming into the club. Aerially, he’s one of the best in the competition. I’m excited to see him get a run of games, and I’m confident we’ll see his quality shine through next season.”

“We know how talented Jordy is, and his natural ability to finish. Unfortunately, we haven’t seen as much of him as we would have liked due to injuries. He’s a great lad and I’m really pleased he’ll be with us again next season.”

We are delighted to have both the twins with us again next season.