Strength and conditioning coach – Charlie Venables
Charlie Venables, our utility back, is our strength and conditioning coach. Charlie has a Masters in S&C from Leeds Beckett University and is a UK S&C Accredited Coach.
He started his S&C career as an Intern at Leeds Beckett and Leeds Rhinos before becoming their full-time coach.
Charlie’s role is to look after all Leeds Tykes’ performance aspects by planning, delivering and reviewing the squad members’ gym and strength programme. He does the same for on-field conditioning, to make sure the squad are match-fit.
Find out what strength & conditioning is all about. In this video, Charlie talks about his responsibilities, how he goes about them and more.
Mike Bidgood
Mike has been involved with the club for thirty years. He’s currently Leeds Tykes’ company secretary.
He also has a few other roles:
– Hon. Treasurer
– Hon. Secretary
– Referee Co-ordinator
– Discipline Secretary
– International Ticket Contact
4th Official – Dave Lowther
Dave played for Leeds clubs from the 1970s – 1990s and has been involved in coaching the academy and officiating since then. He is now the Tykes’ 4th official.
Dave received the Keith Howard Spirit of the Tykes Award at the end of the 2025/26 season. Read what Gary Hetheringon, President, Leeds Tykes, had to say about Dave.
Team Doctor – Tony McWilliams
Doc has been around the club for a number of years now providing excellent support and care as our match day doctor.
Head Physio – Jack Gilmartin
Former player, Jack, returns to the club in a new role for the 2026/27 season, having been appointed Lead Physiotherapist.
Alongside his work as a Chartered MSK Physiotherapist at SB Therapy & SB Performance, Jack will support the squad with pitch-side medical cover, injury assessment and management, rehabilitation and return-to-play, working closely with the coaching and performance staff throughout the season.
With the Tykes competing in National One, he will play an important role in supporting the squad throughout the campaign.