Keighley Cougars announce the departures of Steve Watkinson (COO) and Jake Webster (Community Director).
With a difficult League One season where the club hosted only 9 home games, and an unknown league structure for 2026, the club have had to make difficult choices to ensure the sustainability of the club in the current unknown world that is British rugby league.
Club owners Ryan and Kaue sincerely thank Jake and Steve for their loyalty, hard work and support as we are disappointed to lose them both.
“Jake has been with the club for 6 years, as a hero on the field, integral to our unbeaten Invincibles season, as well as being a huge support off it. Working in the local community, building bridges with local clubs and organisations.
Steve has been with the club for the past 3 years, working tirelessly to make the club tick and prosper. Organising everything from commercial, to players, to matchday. They have been by our side in the good and the tough times, and it is with sadness that we will be losing them.
Having undertaken a tough review of club sustainability, we have had to make hard choices to ensure the long term strength of the club in a climate that is very uncertain, making commercial commitments and decisions difficult. We both wish Jake and Steve every success. They will always be a part of Keighley Cougars.”
Kaue Garcia will be stepping up to cover the roles that Steve and Jake have been doing, committing himself to a full time role.
Steve’s comments on the departure: ‘I’ve enjoyed my time at Keighley and thank all the fans for sticking with us during this difficult season. It’s been a long few years and countless hours invested. I hope the club has the success it craves.’
Jake adds: ‘I’ve really enjoyed my time both playing and working at the club. I would like to thank Ryan, Kaue, Mick, Jackie, Mick, Judith for bringing me to the club and giving me and my family a place to call home for so many years. I’ve had so many good times at the club with some great highs that will be remembered for a long time. Thanks to everyone else who has helped me with the transition into the real world and for the support. Thanks to the supporters who continue to cheer even when we have had some rough times. This club has been my life for the past 6 years and I will take so much away with me into the next chapter of my life. I wish you all the best of luck and all the success you deserve’.
The club looks forward to clarity on 2026 league structures, so that rebuilding for 2026 and beyond can begin.
