Dave brings a great playing record with him to Mallorie Park. He started his rugby career at Preston Grasshopper progressing through their junior ranks and representing Lancashire Colts (...although he is indeed a Yorkshire man)! In the early 2000's Dave followed his father's footsteps switching codes to Rugby League & playing for clubs both East and West of the country including Huddersfield Underbank, Cumbrian side Millom and Teesside Steelers.

After four successful seasons playing Rugby League, Dave switched back to his preferred Rugby Union and joined Billingham, skippering the side through three promotions to National 3. During that period as captain Dave enjoyed a League and Cup double and winning both intermediate and senior Durham County Cups. After 9 seasons with Billingham and a move back to Yorkshire he signed for York last season helping them to a 3rd place finish in Yorkshire 1.

Alongside his playing commitments Dave helped with forwards coaching and fitness sessions. Dave still owns a fitness club in Teesside and is a fully qualified personal trainer and a Level 3 Strength and Conditioning coach and will help the club with its training and playing in the 2015/16 season.

Adam Briggs, Club Chairman had this to say about our new signing,
“On behalf of Ripon Rugby Club I wish to extend a warm Mallorie Park welcome to Dave. He has enjoyed an excellent playing career and will be a real asset to our Club both on the field of play and on the training ground. Working with a player and coach of Dave's calibre will really assist in our ambition in moving our Club forward. He is a perfect role model for our promising young players and as a strengthening and conditioning coach he will assist in preparing us to be more competitive on the park.”