James Ford becomes first ever full-time coach at York

York have made a statement of intent by securing the services of coach James Ford on a full-time deal for the next three years.

The new and improved contract will see the 35-year-old become the Knights’ first ever full-time head coach from this September until the end of the 2021 campaign.

Since taking over the reins at Bootham Crescent at the end of 2014, Ford has led York to three consecutive League 1 play-off semi-finals as well as the 2016 League 1 Cup Final.

On his new deal, Ford said: “It was a big decision for me to take a full-time role in the game, but one I’m very excited about.

“I’m very proud to be head coach of York City Knights and I’m proud of the progress that club is making on and off the field.

“There’s always been potential in the city and we’re heading in the right direction. The club feels ready to take that next step and I’m honoured to have that responsibility.”

As part of his full-time role, Ford will help the club grow the community game in North Yorkshire and will work with sponsors to promote the club in a bid to increase turnover.

Knights chairman, Jon Flatman, said: “We’re delighted that James has committed to this new contract.

“There’s a commitment to ensure we’ve got a quality product and a competitive team on the field, and the head coach obviously plays a key role in making that happen.

“James has a big future in the game and we wanted to ensure that he plays a big part in York City Knights’ future.

“His relationship with players and other people in the game is excellent and the club will continue to build on and off the field with James leading the way.”