The Future's Bright
Signed on the night
By Haxbytyke
June 9 2011
More than 150 supporters attended the Leeds Carnegie fans forum, So congested was the arena the kick off had to be delayed to get everybody in.
Gary Hetherington gave a 3 part presentation, entitled ‘The Past, The Present and The Future. The first part of the evening detailed the background of the club, stating how we received £2.5 million from the sale of part of Kirkstall to Morrisons. Over the next 8 seasons the club rose from division 3 to the Premiership, playing in the Heineken Cup along the way, as well as winning the Powergen trophy in our finest hour. The majority of the finance to reach this stage was provided by Paul Caddick.
In 2007 the University took control financially and in 2008/09 committed £3million pounds to the playing budget. Despite an average attendance of 7,238, many of these fans arrived on free tickets and by the end of the season some £14 million had been committed to the club, although it was all in the form of a gift and not offered as a loan.
When Leeds was promoted they received less funding than their rivals, but in 2009 struck a deal with the Premiership, that should they avoid relegation, they would become a full shareholder, and consequently be able to compete on a level playing field. As a result Leeds committed £4million to building a side capable of staying in the GP, but at the end of the season, they had inherited a £1.5million debt. Had they been relegated, the parachute payment would have covered the debt, and we would have merrily rolled along in the second tier, but we avoided the drop, and consequently set a budget which would consolidate our position as a Premier side. As we all know, this didn’t go according to plan, and due to poor attendances, lack of sponsorship and hospitality packages etc, the club were relegated and the debt had increased to £2 million.
Last season committed as much money, if not more to the playing budget than any of the three teams who finished immediately above them in the league, and GH openly admitted the money had not been spent wisely. He informed the meeting that the DOR had complete control over signings within the budget, and he was disappointed, as to how things turned out.
The current situation is this.
The £2 million debt, which is owed to the banks, will be repaid over the next two years. GH stated the interest alone on this debt was £1000 per week. There would be no more borrowing, and no private benevolence, but Leeds is still a full PRL shareholder, and this will minimise the impact to some extent. Because of the arrangements with Leeds CFandR, Carnegie rugby operation’s only expense is the £2.5 million playing budget which is easily the biggest in the Championship. GH wouldn’t be committed to a question regarding the effect the sacking of Andy Key had on relegation, but did say, nobody would ever know how big, or little, a part that decision had on our season.
And so, to the future. There are basically 3 targets. Firstly, to secure the survival of the club. As GH pointed out, only 2 of the 12 Premiership clubs make a profit, all the rest rely on individual investment to pay their way. Secondly, to grow the business, both on and off the field by generating income, sponsorship and support. The third objective is to build a team that will win promotion by developing young local talent alongside seasoned professionals, and build the kind of atmosphere that other leading players will buy into.
GH then produced a list of players who are leaving the club, followed by the names of those who are staying to fight the cause.
Although there were one or two names I would have liked to stay, I believe the club has made some tough, but correct decisions. With regard to the new coach, Gh stated that as soon as he had interviewed Diccon Edwards, he saw no need to interview any other external candidates, as he had the vision, and strategies, for Leeds, that GH feels will bring success.
The aim is to bring success to Leeds by developing the talent we have, and by giving them an incentive to be successful at Leeds. New captain Andy Titterell explained why he chose to stay and he received a n excellent ovation. Mike MacDonald also signed on the dotted line for another two years, and I left the evening, not downhearted as I was when we were relegated, but hopeful of a new dawn beginning.
A very successful evening. Let us hope it augurs well for the season ahead.
The Future's Bright
Posted by: TykesRugby.co.uk (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 05:30
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Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Wildwillie (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 05:43
For me the big positives of the night were:
1. Acceptance that mistakes had been made
2. Getting back to an academy based squad.
3. Clear targets and objectives for team & club.
4. MacDonald, Rowan & Oakley all re-signing.
1. Acceptance that mistakes had been made
2. Getting back to an academy based squad.
3. Clear targets and objectives for team & club.
4. MacDonald, Rowan & Oakley all re-signing.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: aireboroughtyke (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 07:21
I thought last night was great. There is a plan in place for the long term. It looks like we will have a blend of "wise old heads" and procacious young Yorkshire talent to push for promotion.
Of note was that there were 22 rugby staff (coaches, conditioners, trainers etc not admin people), this is being reduceed to 13 this year. 22 sounds like a huge number for a squad of 35.
Of note was that there were 22 rugby staff (coaches, conditioners, trainers etc not admin people), this is being reduceed to 13 this year. 22 sounds like a huge number for a squad of 35.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Loosehead (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 07:23
all good, but why sign a wing, when we let a talented developed acadmey player go
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Bobba (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 07:48
Surprized by the amount of people that attended.
However, for me, the financial figures quoted by GH, do not stack up. The presentation by the Director was, in my view, wishy washy. And, surprised that we are allowing 21 players to leave, with Danny Paul being undecided at the moment, as a sresult we still need to recruit some 8/9 more players.
On a positive, I'm delighted that Titts has committed to Leeds and has been uplifted to Captain also that, on the day, Big Mac put pen to paper for a further two years. Also liked the look of the new strip, particularly the green one. Tinkerbell, when fit, will feel that he is still playing in Wharfedale colours.
On the whole, a bit more optimistic than at the end of the season.
Onwards and upwards!
However, for me, the financial figures quoted by GH, do not stack up. The presentation by the Director was, in my view, wishy washy. And, surprised that we are allowing 21 players to leave, with Danny Paul being undecided at the moment, as a sresult we still need to recruit some 8/9 more players.
On a positive, I'm delighted that Titts has committed to Leeds and has been uplifted to Captain also that, on the day, Big Mac put pen to paper for a further two years. Also liked the look of the new strip, particularly the green one. Tinkerbell, when fit, will feel that he is still playing in Wharfedale colours.
On the whole, a bit more optimistic than at the end of the season.
Onwards and upwards!
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Bran (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 08:08
If danny paul's undecided, there isn't a grqeat deal the club can do. We have to presume hehas been offered a contract, if he walks away he does. It would be a shame, when fit a great carrier, unfortunatley for us he hasn't been fit often.
Like the post earlier about Wackett, a shame he's gone, it would be interesting to see where to.
I feel the loss of players like that and Burrell are more of a failure to secure them on longer contracts in the past, a recerpution of previous failings.
Hopefully this will draw a line and let the club move on.
Like the post earlier about Wackett, a shame he's gone, it would be interesting to see where to.
I feel the loss of players like that and Burrell are more of a failure to secure them on longer contracts in the past, a recerpution of previous failings.
Hopefully this will draw a line and let the club move on.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: SideStep (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 09:39
I enjoyed the night, Good how the got Big Mac to sign there and then was a good touch. Disappointed that Wackett was let go as he told me yesterday on twitter it was the clubs choice and not his. But am looking forward now and hopefully to bringing back true 'Leeds' successes
The first Leeds Tykes child mascot...#leedswasps0203season. #cheersbentos
The first Leeds Tykes child mascot...#leedswasps0203season. #cheersbentos
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Bran (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 10:23
a shame if the club chose not to renew his contract, I've always thought he was a good prospect. I wonder who they have coming in?
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: nubby (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 13:31
I thought Andy Titterell spoke very well at the event. I think he will be an inspiring captain who will bring out the best in those around him.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: daveyjp (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 14:05
There was also a jest about whether Big Mac would have signed if he had known the pitch will be put back to the original width!
I assume this is also a Key/Back idea which will be dropped.
I assume this is also a Key/Back idea which will be dropped.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Rocky (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 14:22
Thanks for the report Haxby. Seemed like it was a good night and well attended.
I dont agree with all of the decisions but, on the whole, it seems like the club is making the tough calls and are really working hard. Good for them!
I dont agree with all of the decisions but, on the whole, it seems like the club is making the tough calls and are really working hard. Good for them!
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Newtfish (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 14:39
Hax, I'm not sure whether the title is yours or WW's but I think it's apt if you take bright as meaning clear, maybe not so much if you take bright as meaning very positive. I am fed up that I couldn't get there so didn't get a first-hand impression, but for me the key point of the evening was the confirmation that there will be no more subsidising of losses by PC and that the club will have to manage its costs to match whatever income can be generated. At least everyone now knows where we stand and, as before, I make no critisicm of PC for drawing his horns in after everything he has laid out.
It does, however, make me much less sanguine about the chances of becoming a more consistent Premiership club. If we are promoted back up next year our overall income probably won't change that much (assuming the proverbial lottery win or rich new backer don't materialise) and we will again have a playing budget much lower than the other clubs. If we don't go back up we know our income and therefore playing budget will fall significantly and I think it would then be very hard to challenge for promotion.
So we may have to accept a few years at this level in the hope that income does somehow begin to grow organically, a new source of external funding appears or that we are in a good enough position to take advantage of any changes which may be made to the league structures when the current arrangements end in a few years' time.
I don't have a problem with any of this, and commend the idea of getting back to a good team spirit and more local boys in the squad, but I do wonder how realistic it is to hope that the fanbase will rise much whilst in the Championship (never mind my ex-Roundhay mates who may stay away now we're going to play in Headingley colours!). At all costs we must avoid further relegation as I think that would be the beginning of the end for the professional club.
I am already wishing the summer away so we can get going again and looking forward to pre-season games, even if they might be at EP or KP rather than France!
It does, however, make me much less sanguine about the chances of becoming a more consistent Premiership club. If we are promoted back up next year our overall income probably won't change that much (assuming the proverbial lottery win or rich new backer don't materialise) and we will again have a playing budget much lower than the other clubs. If we don't go back up we know our income and therefore playing budget will fall significantly and I think it would then be very hard to challenge for promotion.
So we may have to accept a few years at this level in the hope that income does somehow begin to grow organically, a new source of external funding appears or that we are in a good enough position to take advantage of any changes which may be made to the league structures when the current arrangements end in a few years' time.
I don't have a problem with any of this, and commend the idea of getting back to a good team spirit and more local boys in the squad, but I do wonder how realistic it is to hope that the fanbase will rise much whilst in the Championship (never mind my ex-Roundhay mates who may stay away now we're going to play in Headingley colours!). At all costs we must avoid further relegation as I think that would be the beginning of the end for the professional club.
I am already wishing the summer away so we can get going again and looking forward to pre-season games, even if they might be at EP or KP rather than France!
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Bran (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 15:48
newtfish,
GH said that the big difference now is we get full funding, but this drops the longer we are out of the Prem.
In short, as Sooper has said.
we need to re-gain promotion this year. This year we have 2.5mill given the rest get 300.000 I believe. if we go up, we get another 2.5 mill. IF/when relegated another 2.5 mill (there's a pattern here)
This as a fan is very difficult, however it meens we will remain solvent.The dream is , that in the next year, we can build a team that has developed through the ranks,a group of players who want to play for Leeds from the sarrounding area because this is what we did to make us succesful in the past. This will also help build the fanbase, how fed up are we of seeing 'our hero's' go off elsewhere, every summer we loose some affinety with the team.This takes time to rebuild every new season.
GH basically admitted the club has spent on player's who have failed to hit the mark, and that this doesn't happen as often when you bring player's through the ranks.
It wont be easy, but to continue as a yo-yo may be the way to survive for a few more years.
GH said that the big difference now is we get full funding, but this drops the longer we are out of the Prem.
In short, as Sooper has said.
we need to re-gain promotion this year. This year we have 2.5mill given the rest get 300.000 I believe. if we go up, we get another 2.5 mill. IF/when relegated another 2.5 mill (there's a pattern here)
This as a fan is very difficult, however it meens we will remain solvent.The dream is , that in the next year, we can build a team that has developed through the ranks,a group of players who want to play for Leeds from the sarrounding area because this is what we did to make us succesful in the past. This will also help build the fanbase, how fed up are we of seeing 'our hero's' go off elsewhere, every summer we loose some affinety with the team.This takes time to rebuild every new season.
GH basically admitted the club has spent on player's who have failed to hit the mark, and that this doesn't happen as often when you bring player's through the ranks.
It wont be easy, but to continue as a yo-yo may be the way to survive for a few more years.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Wildwillie (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 18:00
Not guilty Newtfish - it is 100% Haxbyspeak!
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: bunj1967 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 18:21
Well written Martin.
As for next season we have to look at the situation that we are in with optimism. Yes its going to be tough but GH did point out on numerous occasions that we will have the biggest budget in the Championship which should bode well. I think the idea to go back to basics and get people playing for the shirt and the club are admirable and i expect that we will be playing more attractive rugby next season.
I think next season will be very successful and if we do go up (which i would expect us to do so)we will be stronger than before by having a more solid squad.
I personally can't wait for next season as it "back to basics" with not only the squad and management but also with our new home kit which i think is brilliant.
As for next season we have to look at the situation that we are in with optimism. Yes its going to be tough but GH did point out on numerous occasions that we will have the biggest budget in the Championship which should bode well. I think the idea to go back to basics and get people playing for the shirt and the club are admirable and i expect that we will be playing more attractive rugby next season.
I think next season will be very successful and if we do go up (which i would expect us to do so)we will be stronger than before by having a more solid squad.
I personally can't wait for next season as it "back to basics" with not only the squad and management but also with our new home kit which i think is brilliant.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Haxbytyke (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 18:57
Something else that struck me was there seemed to be a much more relaxed atmosphere among the club representatives who were there. Talking to them individually, I got the impression we now have a happy camp of players who all want to play for Leeds. We may even get them to come across to the fans at the end of the game. That isn't much I know, but it does help build the club/fan relationship .I am very optimistic we are moving in the right direction
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Zandra LaPoI (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 19:07
That has been a huge bee in my bonnet recently, that they have not acknowledged our presence.
The trips to Exeter and Quins were a case in point. All that way and not even a wave.
I for one am happy (well as happy as I can be at the moment) and am looking forward to next season and seeing all you guys again!
Zandra YaPoI
YaPoI - Yorkshire and Proud of It
'proficiscor in una'
The trips to Exeter and Quins were a case in point. All that way and not even a wave.
I for one am happy (well as happy as I can be at the moment) and am looking forward to next season and seeing all you guys again!
Zandra YaPoI
YaPoI - Yorkshire and Proud of It
'proficiscor in una'
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Stig of the Dump (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 20:09
It was a very enlightening evening, but I am still perplexed with regard to the figures, the business growth strategy, and the ambition.
Not wanting to put a downer on the positive vibes, which are all well and good, and implies we are going in the right direction, there are still in my mind some unanswered questions, and the Q & A session wasn't long enough.
1) Capital; We have a £2 million pound debt that is owed to "The Bank" as stated by GH last night. If we have no current new capital, still a sizeable wage bill to pay, the parachute payment (which I believe will not be used to finance the debt), and interest payments of over £2000 per month. How are we going to repay this in the two years, because banks are one organisation who will foreclose?
2) Business Growth Strategy; Based upon the fact that we are now in the Championship we will as in previous years lose the "Premiership Only" fans, I would suspect as per previous visits to the Championship the average gates will be down, we were also told that the plan is to sell Leeds as "The Pride of Yorkshire" and that they will be targeting the whole of Yorkshire to win support and sponsorship. Isn't this exactly what we have been trying to do for the past 10 years with limited if no success? It was stated that a few years ago when we had an average crowd of approx 7,000, this was on the back of freebie tickets, and the fans would only come back if they received free tickets, and we are not prepared to do that again. What exactly are they planning on doing that is any different to previous seasons?
3) The squad; Based upon finances, the limited "Premiership' experience of most of the squad announced yesterday and the fact that those that remain and have re-signed (but weren't actually good enough to keep us up last season). What are Leeds going to do if and when we are promoted next season, and if the answer is to "buy in" isn't that what we've tried before, and failed?
It's great that we're bringing in, and bringing on the youngsters, but in reality do we honestly think that they would survive in the Premiership with only one season of Championship rugby under their belts?
Saying all the above, I will be renewing my season ticket, as I believe from what was said last night the intentions are there, and after all I'm a Leeds supporter and as much as I want us to play in the Premiership, I'd still watch them whatever division..
Not wanting to put a downer on the positive vibes, which are all well and good, and implies we are going in the right direction, there are still in my mind some unanswered questions, and the Q & A session wasn't long enough.
1) Capital; We have a £2 million pound debt that is owed to "The Bank" as stated by GH last night. If we have no current new capital, still a sizeable wage bill to pay, the parachute payment (which I believe will not be used to finance the debt), and interest payments of over £2000 per month. How are we going to repay this in the two years, because banks are one organisation who will foreclose?
2) Business Growth Strategy; Based upon the fact that we are now in the Championship we will as in previous years lose the "Premiership Only" fans, I would suspect as per previous visits to the Championship the average gates will be down, we were also told that the plan is to sell Leeds as "The Pride of Yorkshire" and that they will be targeting the whole of Yorkshire to win support and sponsorship. Isn't this exactly what we have been trying to do for the past 10 years with limited if no success? It was stated that a few years ago when we had an average crowd of approx 7,000, this was on the back of freebie tickets, and the fans would only come back if they received free tickets, and we are not prepared to do that again. What exactly are they planning on doing that is any different to previous seasons?
3) The squad; Based upon finances, the limited "Premiership' experience of most of the squad announced yesterday and the fact that those that remain and have re-signed (but weren't actually good enough to keep us up last season). What are Leeds going to do if and when we are promoted next season, and if the answer is to "buy in" isn't that what we've tried before, and failed?
It's great that we're bringing in, and bringing on the youngsters, but in reality do we honestly think that they would survive in the Premiership with only one season of Championship rugby under their belts?
Saying all the above, I will be renewing my season ticket, as I believe from what was said last night the intentions are there, and after all I'm a Leeds supporter and as much as I want us to play in the Premiership, I'd still watch them whatever division..
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Timofe (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 20:19
While the money's a concern, it sounds like we're planning to play within our budget and thus the worries about the survival of the club lessen somewhat. The main thing is that it buys us time.
If, as has been said elsewhere, we play the system wisely, we have the players to take us back up, then down, then up, etc. Home grown players will naturally be more loyal and the games will mean something.
One request: Please don't chelp if we lose a few games! The Championship is a marathon, not a sprint. In fact, it's a marathon with a 10k after it, so let's not panic. Let's hope Diccon uses an apt strategy and that the Board keep their faith in him.
After all, a five year, home-grown player plan has been suggested by an ex-Academy Manager before, I seem to remember...
Suffering on the Leeds and Yorkshire roller-coaster since 2001
If, as has been said elsewhere, we play the system wisely, we have the players to take us back up, then down, then up, etc. Home grown players will naturally be more loyal and the games will mean something.
One request: Please don't chelp if we lose a few games! The Championship is a marathon, not a sprint. In fact, it's a marathon with a 10k after it, so let's not panic. Let's hope Diccon uses an apt strategy and that the Board keep their faith in him.
After all, a five year, home-grown player plan has been suggested by an ex-Academy Manager before, I seem to remember...
Suffering on the Leeds and Yorkshire roller-coaster since 2001
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: SoopaLeeds (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 21:30
Tim,
A most valid point. This season we don't have to win every game and finish top. Getting a top 8 place puts us in the hunt out of 12 teams.
I hope we use some early games to get the balance and the personnel right, so that when we get to the sharp end we're bang on form.
A most valid point. This season we don't have to win every game and finish top. Getting a top 8 place puts us in the hunt out of 12 teams.
I hope we use some early games to get the balance and the personnel right, so that when we get to the sharp end we're bang on form.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Haxbytyke (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 21:41
Agree entirely Soops and Tim. What was also mentioned by GH, but I omitted to include, was that there is a growing opinion within the game to move to a 14 team premiership. If that happens we need to ensure we are in the 14 who take their place, and if there is then a moritorium, of say, 3 seasons, we will be in a very good position to develop further. Good youngsters, some experience behind them, and some experienced old heads to attract better quality players. You can throw in to that the fact that some clubs will not be as financially secure as we will. It is far from the doom and gloom perspective some fans had a few weeks ago.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: SoopaLeeds (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2011 21:46
The nice thing about being realistic is you avoid the fanatical "we are going to win the league" crew at the start of a season and you avoid the "doomed" brigade at the end.
I have always felt the prem is a tough ask for us to cope in, but equally we are the best outside it and we have many natural advantages we should play to.
If we get a 14 team prem in the future I have no doubt we'll be there, given our financials are being watched carefully and we have now got a proper focus on our own heritage and the youngsters.
I have been looking forward to next season for a while and I'm really pleased to see the mood of many on here improving at last.
Once again the board deserve credit for the hard work they put in, so often without any thanks.
I have always felt the prem is a tough ask for us to cope in, but equally we are the best outside it and we have many natural advantages we should play to.
If we get a 14 team prem in the future I have no doubt we'll be there, given our financials are being watched carefully and we have now got a proper focus on our own heritage and the youngsters.
I have been looking forward to next season for a while and I'm really pleased to see the mood of many on here improving at last.
Once again the board deserve credit for the hard work they put in, so often without any thanks.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: J6/7 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 08:50
The play offs in the championship ensure that, theoretically, any one of the top 8 teams could gain promotion. The fact that only (presently) 3 teams possess grounds that meet RFU criteria is merely an added complication which the Tykes do not have to concern themselves with as they are one of the 3 clubs having acceptable facilities. If Leeds finish top of the league they will join the ranks of the dissenters, if they finish elsewhere they become fully paid up members of the play off farce approval society.The largest problem facing them next season is winning promotion - long term strategies, 14 strong leagues, moratoriums, future parachute payments etc pale into insignificance if the promotion is not achieved! Wuss had all the benefits, could they be so described, relating to parachute payments, strength & size of squad and massive fan base (by Championship standards) they won every league game bar one and finished 20 points clear of the second placed club and yet they won a vital play off game in the 14th minute of extra time, had they lost that game they would still be in the Championship! I am sure that the board appreciate the situation and are aware of pitfalls even though this aspect has not received a great deal of attention. Onwards & upwards but do not under estimate the size of the task ahead! Good luck.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: *baldric* (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 09:25
Quote:SoopaLeeds
The nice thing about being realistic is you avoid the fanatical "we are going to win the league" crew at the start of a season and you avoid the "doomed" brigade at the end.
Hmm. I can think of one person who managed to squeeze both extremes into one week, indeed one day
As to the league/play-off structure - I really do hope, come the end of the season, we won't be whinging like the Worcester fans have been. We know the rules, the format, and what has to be done. If we can't handle that then we should withdraw from the Championship now, not bleat about it later.
Still a Tyke - whatever the name!
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: John R (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 10:51
With the play off being so critical to promotion this coming season, I really hope the Diccon will give everyone in the squad a good go in the earlier games. (I am sure he will!)
Only then will we know which players to put into the "final twenty two" for the important matches, which are the sudden death play offs.
As already alluded to, had Bedford beaten Wuss in that semi, we would still be in the Premiership and Wuss in the Championship!
We MUST ensure that doesn't happen to us next time!
I am very encouraged by the way this coming season is shaping up.
BUT as someone suggested at the open evening, we MUST have strength in depth in the kicking department.(it doesn't have to be a 10!) That's the real reason we are where we are now and this dire kicking ability of our players must be a thing of the past from here on!
I am looking forward to more wins, a very positive atmosphere at Headingley both on and off the pitch and above all else, an enjoyable season for all, which we certainly didn't have last season.
Onward and upwards!
Up the Carnegie TYKES !
Only then will we know which players to put into the "final twenty two" for the important matches, which are the sudden death play offs.
As already alluded to, had Bedford beaten Wuss in that semi, we would still be in the Premiership and Wuss in the Championship!
We MUST ensure that doesn't happen to us next time!
I am very encouraged by the way this coming season is shaping up.
BUT as someone suggested at the open evening, we MUST have strength in depth in the kicking department.(it doesn't have to be a 10!) That's the real reason we are where we are now and this dire kicking ability of our players must be a thing of the past from here on!
I am looking forward to more wins, a very positive atmosphere at Headingley both on and off the pitch and above all else, an enjoyable season for all, which we certainly didn't have last season.
Onward and upwards!
Up the Carnegie TYKES !
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Rocky (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 11:23
Regarding kickers Ford is obviously going to be key at 10 but McColl the Full back has a pretty decent kicking rate from the tee and certainly can do some Goodridge type boomers when in defence.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Beeston Lion (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 12:03
As alluded to regarding finance we are looking to put our affairs in order and this could be a critical feature of the clubs future. GH said that only two clubs in the premiership are in a sound financial state and the others are in debt to the tune of £20 million. As things stand in the Premiership I can see little changing in that situation so our good stewardship will help long term. (Always assuming there is a Premiership to aspire to!)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:06:11:00:13:55 by Beeston Lion.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:06:11:00:13:55 by Beeston Lion.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Newtfish (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 12:50
Beeston, I'm not sure that it will unless you assume that one day all of the sugar-daddies will do the same as PC and withdraw their support and some clubs will disappear. Until then, however wrecked their balance sheets might be, they will continue to have playing budgets well in excess of anything we can now reasonably aspire to in the Prem and, most likely, will therefore continue to enjoy better results.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: merry (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 13:16
good summary, hax. and yup, the future is bright. sorting out the financial squander, re-establishing the club's ethos, rebuilding team spirit and sorting out our club's direction is what we all wanted. it sounds like all those issues have been, or are being, addressed. so no one can complain about not being informed these days.
as for the playing side, when we've added a few more players to fill the gaps, i think we'll have enough seasoned pros to bring through the young guns next season (and a coach who knows the youngsters!).
looking forward to seeing how the squad develops its play during the first 6 months...and then the play-offs are going to be mental! but it wouldn't be leeds if we had a season in the comfort zone.
can't wait for august now.
as for the playing side, when we've added a few more players to fill the gaps, i think we'll have enough seasoned pros to bring through the young guns next season (and a coach who knows the youngsters!).
looking forward to seeing how the squad develops its play during the first 6 months...and then the play-offs are going to be mental! but it wouldn't be leeds if we had a season in the comfort zone.
can't wait for august now.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: J6/7 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 17:54
To fundamentally disagree with something so unfair as the recently introduced play off system appears to be cannot be construed as whining - particularly as Wuss managed to win the additional eight team rehash! The fact that Wuss still disagree with this event, even though they are no longer involved with it, must be treated at the very least as a legitimate point of view - not whinging, Wuss were in the position of having won the league convincingly (as did Bristol the preceding year) and then having to enter into an end of season lottery in order to decide who actually won the league, the game against Bedford, so pivotal to both clubs, was a one off game - surely that is not fair? I really hope that Tykes do not experience the 'Bristol' phenomena next season, but I bet none of the Leeds supporters will be quite so sanguine about this new ruling if they actually win the league and then have to face the play offs! Wuss were shell shocked after some of their games, the standard in the top of the Championship is no different to that at the bottom of the Premiership! Sorry for hijacking your forum, but I support your club as my secondary following because I played quite a bit of rugby in the North. (Harrogate)
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Loosehead (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 18:27
We know it will be hard, we have been here twice before recently and know that the Champ teams are no mugs, they are well drilled sides, we just need to be fresher come the play offs
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: olliek (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 18:46
I think there is case to be argued that the playoffs up the level of rugby which in hand prepares the team for the premiership. I'm sure this helped as a stepping stone for Exeter.
We all know the rules we know where we have to be and when the intensity of the season has to be stepped up.
Wasp's of old always seemed to manage there season really well to hit the play offs at peak form.
We all know the rules we know where we have to be and when the intensity of the season has to be stepped up.
Wasp's of old always seemed to manage there season really well to hit the play offs at peak form.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: apb (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 20:20
I am, and have always been, a supporter of the playoffs
Waiting for the good times ...
..and waiting ....
... and waiting ...
Waiting for the good times ...
..and waiting ....
... and waiting ...
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: fatheralice (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 20:46
Rob Baxter certainly believes they helped the Chiefs toughen up, prior to the Prem.
Good in the long run, but tough for everyone involved at the time. The unfortunate downgrading of the main season to an extended pre-season is the major drawback IMHO, the actual play offs provide some compelling rugby, and certainly with Exeter, the atmosphere really stepped up for the Play off games.
Good in the long run, but tough for everyone involved at the time. The unfortunate downgrading of the main season to an extended pre-season is the major drawback IMHO, the actual play offs provide some compelling rugby, and certainly with Exeter, the atmosphere really stepped up for the Play off games.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Halifaxtyke (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 22:43
"we were also told that the plan is to sell Leeds as "The Pride of Yorkshire" and that they will be targeting the whole of Yorkshire to win support and sponsorship"
How about changing the name to include Yorkshire and dropping "Leeds" from it?
Traditionally, we Tykes are fiercely parochial and some might not be able to swallow local pride and support a Leeds team.
Besides enjoying both codes of rugby, I am a Huddersfield Town fan and Leeds United are anathema, could this also apply to Leeds Carnegie in some people's eyes?
Besides which, it's all very well saying that "they will be targeting the whole of Yorkshire" but in the 10 years I have supported Tykes I have never heard any promotion of the club in the Halifax / Huddersfield area, which I suspect has been the case in most other parts of the county.
How about changing the name to include Yorkshire and dropping "Leeds" from it?
Traditionally, we Tykes are fiercely parochial and some might not be able to swallow local pride and support a Leeds team.
Besides enjoying both codes of rugby, I am a Huddersfield Town fan and Leeds United are anathema, could this also apply to Leeds Carnegie in some people's eyes?
Besides which, it's all very well saying that "they will be targeting the whole of Yorkshire" but in the 10 years I have supported Tykes I have never heard any promotion of the club in the Halifax / Huddersfield area, which I suspect has been the case in most other parts of the county.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Loosehead (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2011 22:53
Quote:ow about changing the name to include Yorkshire and dropping "Leeds" from it? Traditionally, we Tykes are fiercely parochial and some might not be able to swallow local pride and support a Leeds team.
We have done this argument loads of times, sure it sounds good in principle but what about the other Yorkshire teams Rotherham Doncaster,Otley etc what gives us the right to become the County team, then there is the playing side, once we are Yorkshire then Hull might want a game, same as Harrogate, Sheffield etc they all might want a Tykes, game as they do in cricket
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Beeston Lion (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2011 00:17
One question I forgot to ask earlier concerns the Director of Rugby Operations, Chris Gibson. Was he involved in the Open Forum and if so what were the impressions of someone we have not seen previously?
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: rotherhamtillidie (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2011 13:16
Was the scenario explained / explored of what happens if you arent promoted this season? aka the bristol scenario!
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: J6/7 (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2011 18:53
Surely the whole point of the league system (was) is that the team that puts in the best performance over twenty plus games covering eight months of effort is the team that wins both the cup and (if other criteria are met*) promotion, if we are discussing the Championship? This recent amendment effectively reduces the entire season to 20 plus meaningless games followed by a month of play offs which effectively decide the overall winner irrespective of how consistently the teams performed in the eight or so months of games prior to the last six weeks of the season. It is sudden death with a vengeance - the fate of a club based on two games! How can that be fair? In the championship failure may be disastrous, at least in the Premiership the club remains a Premiership side although I have also always considered the play offs to be unfair there as well, Glaws were robbed twice in as many years after winning the league convincingly!
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Newtfish (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2011 09:15
Quote:rotherhamtillidie
Was the scenario explained / explored of what happens if you arent promoted this season? aka the bristol scenario!
Only, as I understand it, to the extent that whatever league we find ourselves in we have to match our expenditure with our income, so a second or subsequent season in the Championship would see a much-reduced budget.
Re: The Future's Bright
Posted by: Roger (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2011 16:56
Quote:J6/7
Glaws were robbed twice in as many years after winning the league convincingly!
Does 'convincingly' take account of the 2006/2007 season tie on points with Leicester after we'd had a point deduction?
Mind you, if you want to join a pay off 'moan-in' come on over to our site. We're pretty firmly agin em!
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