Featherstone Rovers CEO David Longo makes switch to professional football

Longo - who is set to join Bradford City as commercial director - has played an integral role in helping improve the Championship club on and off the field at Post Office Road for the last four years.

Featherstone reached the Million Pound Game against the odds in 2019 and narrowly missed out to Toronto Wolfpack while they also made an impressive application for Super League when the Canadaian club withdrew from the top-flight last year.

“It’s been a fantastic period of my life working for Featherstone Rovers and one that I will truly never forget,” said Longo.

“I started with a plan to improve all areas of the club and I believe we’ve achieved this.

“2019 will remain a highlight for me; it was a remarkable season and one that brought the fans, players and staff together.

“Furthermore, ranking first for financial performance in the latest ROI measures just demonstrates the club’s financial stability.

“I’d like to personally thank Mark Campbell for giving me the opportunity to work for the Rovers and all the staff and brilliant volunteers for their long hours and commitment during my four years in this post.

“I am a football fan and having been involved in rugby league since the age of nine, I felt a change was needed for me to experience another sport and write a new chapter in my career.

“I will continue to work hard during my remaining time here and will ensure that the Millennium Stadium is Covid-safe for fixtures to commence in March.”

Longo will continue to operate as CEO until March 31 meaning he will oversee the opening rounds of the Betfred Challenge Cup and Betfred Championship before his exit.

A Featherstone statement read: “Featherstone Rovers would like to thank Davide for his services to the club and wishes him the best of luck in his future ventures.

“Although everyone at the club is sad to see Davide go, officials believe the new opportunity he begins pays testament to not only the hard work he has done in Featherstone - but also what this club has done for his career.

“The ambitions of everyone at the club now is to begin the 2021 centenary season with some positive results to give Davide a farewell that reflects his time with Featherstone Rovers.”