Rugby League National Leagues

Cougars Q&A Session Deemed A Success

Keighley Cougars had a very positive Question and Answer Session between the fans and new directors on Tuesday evening. Gary Fawcett and Graham Kemp from the new board were joined by general manager Helen Carter and head coach Barry Eaton to answer questions about the club and its aspirations for the future.

The fans were keen to discuss the tax legacy which lead to administration and Gary Fawcett took charge in explaining debt had built up over a number of years during the push for promotion in 2003/2004 which caused the wage bill to be higher than the revenue at that time. The club managed to keep the tax authority on an even keel last season which meant it didn't grow but also it did not reduce, this was followed by Gary Fawcett explaining how the club tried to avoid administration with five meetings with the HMRC but no solution could be found.

The questions then turned to focus on the future where the board shared plans for the club in regards to the stadium and the hope to achieve Super League rugby in 2014.Gary Fawcett and Graham Kemp explained that the main focus is stability for the club as a whole and in the Championship, They went on to explain that achieving Super League statues by 2014 is an aspiration for the club with focus on improving Cougar Park. Barry Eaton guaranteed that the squad will be doing their hardest to go out and win every single game they play this season in despite how many points the club get deducted. He went on to say "Pre-season training has being fantastic, the lads have put 100% effort in and are remaining positive for the season ahead,"

The panel then answered questions on community aspects of the club and how the club will strengthen the partnerships the club has especially with the three local amateur sides, Keighley Cubs, Keighley Albion and West Craven Warriors. Fans were then keen to show their support by offers of a fundraising committee which we hope will definitely happen.

All in all it was deemed a successful night for both the new board and the fans and we can all look to an exciting and bright future for Keighley Cougars.