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06
Jun
Harrogate appoint new director of rugby
Harrogate Rugby Union Club have appointed a new director of rugby.
Former club captain Jake Brady will replace Martyn Wood in the role from the 2025/26 season.
Brady joins from Leeds Tykes, who recently won the National League 2 North – the same league Harrogate were relegated from on the final day.
The forward was at the club for six years, serving as both club captain and general manager.
Wood will remain at the club in the newly created role of chairman of rugby, providing support to Brady, the coaching team and the wider club.
His appointment does not affect the position of current chairman Mark Garrett.
The restructure marks a homecoming for Brady, who will play alongside his brother and club captain, Sam Brady.
His return comes at a pivotal moment, as Harrogate look to bounce back from relegation.
Reflecting on his return, Brady said:
I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to rejoin Harrogate. Some of my favourite rugby memories come from my time at the club over 10 years ago. Since then, I’ve grown as both a player and a person, and I now feel I’m in a position to give something back to a club that’s given me so much.
I’ve kept a close eye on the club’s progress and, after facing them twice last season with Leeds Tykes, I have a strong sense of the team’s potential. This feels like the beginning of an exciting journey.
The club has shown real ambition by putting faith in me and in a shared vision of what we can achieve together.
He added: "While my main focus will be the rugby department, I also hope to contribute off the field and add value across the wider club. I’m looking forward to reconnecting with those currently involved and hopefully bringing back some brilliant people who’ve been part of the club in the past."
Chairman Mark Garrett said:
I am thrilled to welcome Jake back to Harrogate at this critical time. The club has made significant strides both on and off the field over the past three years. While relegation was disappointing, the lessons learned over the last two seasons have been invaluable.
Jake is the right character to lead us forward, and I’m excited to see what he and the team can achieve in the coming season.
Brady will assume his role with immediate effect, with the club’s pre-season preparations already underway.
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