During the summer, John Smith, who is a highly experienced rugby volunteer and well known through out the Yorkshire rugby community, was appointed to the role of Honorary Secretary.

John has had an extensive playing career which spanned over 37 years. He began playing at the age of 11 and finally hung up his boots at the age of 48. He spent all of his playing days at Wath, with a few guest appearances across a number of other local teams.

He is also a experienced coach, having coached aged grade rugby at Wath and Rotherham as well as having as stint as Assistant Coach for Wath men’s senior team, where he supported the then Head Coach, Dave Hunter. Johns working life as a Physiotherapist, also transitioned into his love of Rugby, as he has held Physio roles for the Yorkshire Terriers, Yorkshire U15s, Yorkshire Senior Men and Wath.

John is also experienced in the governance of the game and in supporting the running of rugby clubs. He has been a servant on both club and county Committees, having previously held the role of fixture secretary and committee member at Wath and County Safeguarding Office for Yorkshire RFU.

Dearne Valley Chairman, Ant Hamilton, commented on the appointment “We set out at the start of the summer to ensure our governance structures were future proof and fit for purpose. The recruitment of a new Honorary Secretary has been key to this and we are really pleased to have someone of Johns experience to fill the role.”

John Smith said about his appointment “I have a great love for all things rugby and am a huge supporter of the community game, it has given me so many fond memories over the years. When I saw and experienced what Dearne Valley are trying to achieve and the forward thinking way they are going about their business, I wanted to be a part of it.”

He added “I attended the clubs Sponsors Day at the end of last season, there was a fantastic atmosphere at the club and you could just tell that they are building something special. I am delighted to now be a part of that and have the opportunity to give back to the game while helping to develop the next generation of the rugby community.”