YORK Knights assistant coach Paul Cooke has made the switch to fellow Betfred Championship side Featherstone Rovers.

Cooke has departed York after one year within the role, working initially alongside Andrew Henderson and then Mark Applegarth, who joined the Knights in June.

Whilst operating with the Knights for the 2024 season, Cooke played a vital role as Applegarth’s side reached the play-off semi-finals after a fourth-placed finish.

Cooke’s move to Featherstone sees the assistant coach link up with former York Head Coach James Ford, as Featherstone look to build upon their sixth-placed finish from the 2024 campaign.

The 43-year-old continues his fantastic career after originally starting at Hull FC in 1999, making over 200 appearances for the Betfred Super League outfit.

Spells in his playing career followed with Hull Kingston Rovers, Wakefield Trinity and Doncaster, before ending his time as a player at Featherstone in 2015.

His playing career included lifted the Betfred Challenge Cup trophy in 2005 as well as having international experience after representing England on three occasions, before moving into a full-time coaching role at Doncaster and Doncaster Knights in rugby union.

Speaking on his move, Cooke commented: “I’m made up to join Featherstone, it’s a great challenge and one I can’t wait to get started.

“I’ve admired the club from afar ever since my brief time as a player in 2015, it’s a club with so much ambition and a rich history which I’m pleased to be a part of.

“The signings Rovers have been making ahead of 2025 are really impressive and I’m looking forward to lending my support and guidance to achieve something special next year.”

Featherstone Head Coach Ford added: “I’m delighted to bring Paul into our environment and he’s already forging positive relationships and delivering to an impressive level. I’m confident that he’ll be a fantastic addition to our club and help us move towards our goals for 2025.”