Leeds Tykes are delighted to welcome the latest additions to the squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.
With preparations underway for the new National 1 campaign, our new signings bring a mix of experience, versatility and ambition as we continue to build a squad ready for the challenges ahead.
We look forward to seeing them in Tykes colours and supporting them throughout the season.
Let’s meet them:
George Worthington
A versatile back, George can play at centre and on the wing and joins the Tykes from Loughborough University, having also spent time with the Yorkshire Rugby Academy. His pace and attacking ability will add further options to the squad.
On joining Leeds Tykes, George said: “I’m excited to play for such a historic club and express myself in National 1.”
George is available to sponsor for the 2026/27 season.
Charlie Vaughan
A dynamic back row forward, Charlie joins the Tykes after progressing through the Yorkshire Rugby Academy between 2022 and 2026, where he was part of the leadership group during his final season. He also captained Ampleforth College 1st XV during the 2025/26 campaign before making his senior debut for Malton & Norton RUFC in April 2026.
Comfortable across the back row, Charlie prides himself on his defensive work while also carrying strongly with the ball in hand.
Charlie is available to sponsor for the 2026/27 season.
Support one of the club’s newest signings and become part of the Leeds Tykes story.
Kristan Dobson
A versatile back three player, Kristan is comfortable at centre, full back and wing, bringing further attacking options to the squad. Previously with Ilkley RC and Harrogate RUFC, Kristan is exciting to watch when he has the space to run.
On signing for Leeds Tykes, Kristan said: “I’m excited to test myself in Nat 1, and really looking forward to playing some fast attacking rugby.”
He is sponsored by Robinson Gas.
Mike Ogunwole
Mike brings versatility to the Leeds Tykes squad for the 2026/27 season. Able to play in the back row and at centre, Michael joins the club from Rotherham Titans, having previously made the switch from rugby league.
On signing for the Tykes, Mike said: “New challenge. Exciting times. The ambition of the club is something I want to be part of.”
Mike is sponsored by HRPR, Leeds Tykes’ digital partner, supporting the club with the technical development and management of our website platform.
Louis Townsend
A back row flanker, Townsend joins the Tykes after previous spells with Macclesfield, Sheffield Tigers and Bolton RUFC, adding further strength and experience to the squad ahead of the new National 1 campaign.
On signing for the Tykes, he said: “I’m absolutely buzzing to sign with Tykes next year and challenge myself in National 1. After nine years in National 2, I’m really excited to step up and challenge myself for the 2026/27 season.”
Jack Hamilton
A second row/back row forward, Jack has previously represented Old Patesians, Gloucester Rugby U18s, Exeter University, Exmouth and Ilkley, adding further strength and versatility to the squad ahead of the new National 1 campaign.
On signing for the Tykes, Jack said: “I’m really excited to be joining Tykes. It seems like a great set up and I’m looking forward to challenging myself at a higher level.”
Jack is sponsored by William Kernighan.
Matt Casselden
A loose head prop, Matt brings experience from Leeds Beckett University and Hull Ionians, adding further strength and depth to the squad ahead of the new National 1 campaign.
On signing for the Tykes, Matt said: “I’m super excited to get started with the lads and getting to work with an experienced coaching team. I’m also looking forward to taking the next steps to progress in my rugby career.”
Matt is sponsored by Fullers Foods International.
Jamie Major
Comfortable at both hooker and in the back row, Jamie brings experience from spells with Rotherham Titans and Hull RUFC, adding further strength and versatility to the pack.
Speaking after signing for the club, Jamie said: “I’m really excited to have signed. I’m looking forward to building on what the squad from last year achieved and, hopefully, add value to the club.”
Jamie is sponsored by Maven Radd.
To find out more about player sponsorship, visit our Player Sponsorship page.
Ben Turpin has returned to the Tykes after completing his studies at Loughborough University. Comfortable at full back, fly-half or on the wing, Ben’s versatility and attacking instincts make him a valuable addition to the squad.
A prolific try scorer, Ben has the pace and creativity to make an impact from anywhere across the backline.
Ben is sponsored by Jenny Macdonald-Smith.
Matt Salisbury has signed for the Tykes after making a strong impression during his time with the club last year. The centre scored 3 tries in 6 appearances, demonstrating his ability to break the gain line and contribute in attack.
A powerful presence in midfield with a keen eye for the try line, Matt was signed by Ampthill last season after impressing for Leeds Beckett University, where he first caught the eye of the Tykes’ coaching team.
Matt is sponsored by U Dentistry. On signing for Leeds Tykes Matt said: “I’m really looking forward to be signing for Tykes. I know how amazing this club is and I’m excited to be part of this next chapter and getting started with the lads.”
Matt dotted down twice against Rosslyn Park. Here’s a short clip of one of them – hear the home fans cheer! ➡️
⛶ See Matt run through the opposition’s defence in full screen
Albert Bradshaw has signed for the Tykes after making a huge impact during his time with the club last year. The winger crossed for an impressive 8 tries in 9 appearances, quickly establishing himself as a dangerous attacking threat.
Joining initially on dual registration from Sale Sharks, Albert’s electric pace and eye for the try line made him a constant challenge for opposition defences.
Albert is sponsored by Stan Dziama Photography, who captured this image of him en route to the try line at AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium in December 2025.
Albert scored two tries in that Rotherham Titans game – watch one of them again ➡️
⛶ Best viewed full screen!
If you are interested in sponsoring a player, find out more.
Ben Bailey joins the Tykes after making 6 appearances last year while representing Leeds Beckett University.
The hooker made a notable impact during his time with the squad, including scoring the match-winning try away at Birmingham Moseley.
Ben is sponsored by Thomas Malone Bloodstock.
Watch Ben’s try again ➡️
⛶ Go full screen for the best view
📷 Thank you to Stan Dziama Photography (our official photographer) for the shots of our players in action.
Sponsor one of our Tykes players for 2026/27
Get behind our newest Tykes signing and support their journey throughout the 2026/27 season. Explore player sponsorship opportunities and connect your business with the squad. Or if you want your brand to be more involved, here is our range of Gold and Silver Sponsorship opportunities.