Jesse Dee re-signs with York Knights until end of 2025

The Australian joined the Knights on a two-year deal from Newcastle Thunder ahead of the 2023 season, but head coach Mark Applegarth has now secured his services for a further year.

He had previously turned out for the Mackay Cutters, Illawarra Cutters and Queensland Rangers in his native country before his single season in the North East.

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Dee's utility value has shone through during his time at the Knights, seeing him feature in the back-row, centre, and half-back.

The 29-year-old has continually impressed, having scored 16 tries during his 32 appearances at the club thus far - five of which have come in a 2024 blighted by injury and suspension.

A needless sin-bin saw him miss York's Betfred Championship opener at Doncaster, whilst he was sidelined with a bicep injury throughout April and May before making his return in their 40-18 victory against Halifax Panthers.

He is yet to play under his new head coach due to an arm injury, but is delighted to have extended his stay in North Yorkshire.

"I'm really excited, Clint's [Goodchild, chairman] got good visions at the club," Dee enthused.

"I'm proud to be a Knight, there's a good community here and a really nice fan base with good people. It's like my second home at the moment.

"The fans and supporters are awesome to me. Obviously being away from home, they're really supportive and its good to see them at the games.

"The vision of the club, the fact that it's a one-club town and the boys here. It's just a really good and exciting time.

"We want to win the competition, become the champions and build a bit of a legacy here."

Dee has scored five times in 2024, including this effort against Toulouse Olympique. (Image: Craig Hawkhead Photography)

Chairman Goodchild admitted he believes that the Australian's best rugby is still ahead of him.

He added: "We're excited to have Jesse here for the 2025 season.

"Jesse has become a key player for us on the field and brings great value off the field with his work with the young players in our squad and his work in schools, which is really valuable.

"Jesse is a genuine rugby league player and his willingness to jump in and do a job for us has brought great value for us ever since he joined the club.

"We see Jesse as part of our future plans, we believe that he can play a higher level and we think that is best rugby is still ahead of him."