Davies is the new Dean of the Carnegie Faculty of Sport & Education

Leeds Met University has returned its 51% stake in Leeds Carnegie and Leeds Rugby have retaken full control.

The restructuring also sees former Wales and British and Irish Lions international Gareth Davies join a new board of directors.

"It a positive move because it gives us the chance to attract new investors," chief executive Gary Hetherington told BBC Radio Leeds.

The name of the club will remain as Leeds Carnegie RUFC.

The West Yorkshire side will return to the Guinness Premiership next season after winning National League One.

The management duo of Andy Key and Neil Back are keen to bring at least eight new players to the club and Hetherington has denied this move will limit their transfer funds.

Hetherington explained: "There are no financial problems here and in many ways we are stronger for the move.

"That is a major reason for Leeds Met's decision because the move now means the club can attract addition investment and sponsorship.

"It won't be easy in these current times, but to be honest we've always had to fight very hard, some times with little reward, to get that investment.

"The partnership between the university and Leeds Rugby is even stronger now.

"All the things the club were benefitting from before from the University will continue.

Davies, who is a former chief executive of Cardiff RFC and BBC Wales Head of Sport, is the new Dean of the Carnegie Faculty of Sport & Education at Leeds Met.

He will represent the university on a new board, which is headed up by Paul Caddick as Chairman.

Davies said: "As a rugby man, I'm obviously delighted to join the board of a club that we're so proud to be associated with."

"The innovative partnership between Leeds Carnegie and Leeds Met will continue to bring benefits to our current and future students, as well as raising the profile of the University.

"I think it's fantastic that Leeds Met has helped the club to get back into the Premiership.

"It is now right that a broader range of supporters, partners and sponsors are now brought on board to support the club over forthcoming seasons."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version