York RLFC are set for a change of ownership after a locally based group agreed a deal to acquire a majority shareholding in the club, bringing Clint Goodchild's successful tenure at the helm to an end.

The consortium, headed by David Dickson and his family, is now progressing the transfer of ownership through the official channels and awaiting formal approval from the Rugby Football League.

Current general manager Neil Gulliver will become chief executive as part of the transition and Richard Larking remains on the board as a director, while Goodchild has stepped down as chairman and CEO.

Goodchild oversaw unprecedented success during his four and a half years in charge, guiding the Knights to the top level and putting the Valkyrie in a position to win back-to-back Women's Super League titles.

"The club would like to put on record their appreciation and thanks to Clint Goodchild for his time as custodian of the club," read a statement.

"His vision, ambition and drive saw the club progress during his tenure at an incredible pace. The rapid growth and recent successes of the club have brought immense pride to the city, with the incoming ownership group being fully committed to enhancing the club’s future, building on these strong foundations and unlocking York Knights' true potential.

"Over the coming weeks, the club will outline their strategic plans and vision as the 2026 season reaches its climax and preparations for 2027 begin."

The Knights have punched above their weight in their maiden Super League season, claiming statement wins over Hull KR and St Helens, while the Valkyrie are on course for another play-off campaign.

The LNER Community Stadium has hosted Super League rugby for the first time this year. (Photo: Matthew Merrick/SWpix.com)

placeholder image — The LNER Community Stadium has hosted Super League rugby for the first time this year. (Photo: Matthew Merrick/SWpix.com)

Goodchild believes the club can go from strength to strength under the new ownership group.

"I brought ambition," he said. "I leave with enough friendships and memories to last a lifetime.

"On arrival I knew York was a proud rugby league city but I didn’t know then how much this place, this club and its people would come to mean to me.

"To the players who sacrifice their bodies. The coaches who demand more. The staff who care far beyond their job descriptions. The volunteers who give their time. The sponsors and partners who believe. And the supporters who keep turning up. Thank you for believing. Together we made history.

"The club is in safe hands and has a very bright future. The club is lucky to have such a wonderful Yorkshire family involved and I am excited for this next York RLFC chapter."