New name, era for Leeds

The university have taken a majority stake in the Tykes and renamed the club Leeds Carnegie, using the traditional name of the former physical education teacher training college that transformed into the institution that exists today.

"Ten years ago Gary Hetherington and I set up a partnership between rugby union and rugby league, where the clubs would share facilities, stadium, training ground and medical facilities," current chairman Paul Caddick said.

"Since that date it is clear that rugby league through Leeds Rhinos has been a terrific success. Although rugby union has made great strides, it is still some way away from being a commercial success. Having suffered relegation last year we are now in a very strong position of rejoining the Guinness Premiership.

"Going forward I believe that Leeds rugby union needs to improve in some key areas. Firstly we need to improve the quality of our team on the pitch by providing more home-grown players from our academy and a smaller number of better-quality overseas players.

"There is also an acceptance that we need a major input into the commercial parts of the business to improve the attendances and supporting profile of rugby union in the Leeds and Yorkshire area.

"Winning immediate promotion back to the Guinness Premiership makes this the right time to open up Leeds Tykes to wider Yorkshire influences.

"Our partnership with Leeds Met Carnegie continues to deepen and I am pleased to announce that the name of the rugby union team is to become Leeds Carnegie to reflect this, with Leeds Met Carnegie joining Leeds Rugby directors on the board of what is now a joint venture."

Caddick's business will continue to support the club through a ten-year deal that will match all revenue generated by ticket sales and corporate opportunities.