CLUB STATEMENT: ASHLEY SIMPSON TO STEP DOWN AS SKIRLAUGH RLFC CHAIRMAN

Skirlaugh RLFC can confirm that Ashley Simpson is to step down as Chairman after accepting an opportunity to work in professional sport with Hull FC.

The decision brings Ash’s four-year tenure as Chairman to a close, but represents only the latest chapter in an extraordinary association with Skirlaugh which began when he joined the club as a 12-year-old player.

From youth rugby through to the Open Age, Ash represented Skirlaugh with distinction and won every major honour available to him in Black and Gold—including the BARLA National Cup, Yorkshire Cup and league titles.

After ending his playing career, Ash continued to serve the club from the touchline. He spent a further six to seven years coaching within both the youth and Open Age sections before eventually accepting the position of Chairman.

Across each of those roles, Ash has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to Skirlaugh, its players and the people working behind the scenes.

“The hardest decision of my life”

Explaining his decision, Ash said:

“This has genuinely been the hardest decision of my life because Skirlaugh, along with all the staff and players, is such a massive part of my life.

“I have loved every stage of my time with the club—from joining as a 12-year-old and playing for Skirlaugh, to coaching within the youth and Open Age sections and, more recently, having the privilege of serving as Chairman.

“Skirlaugh has given me some of the greatest memories and friendships of my life. It is much more than a rugby club to me and always will be.

“This is the only opportunity that could have taken me away. The chance to work in professional sport at Hull FC, alongside my lifelong friend Steve McNamara, was something I couldn’t turn down.

“Although I am stepping down as Chairman, I will always be available to the club in an advisory capacity whenever I am needed. Skirlaugh will always be part of me—and I’m sure this won’t be the last time I have a role to play here.”

A lifetime of service to Skirlaugh

Ash’s contribution extends far beyond his time in the Chairman’s position.

He has experienced the club from almost every perspective: as a junior player, an established member of the Open Age side, a successful coach, a committee member and ultimately Chairman.

That lifelong connection has helped Ash understand the importance of every section of the club—from the youngest players beginning their rugby league journeys to the First Team, former players, volunteers and supporters.

During his time as Chairman, Ash has worked tirelessly to move Skirlaugh forward while protecting the identity, history and values which make the club special.

He has also remained a strong supporter of the connection between the youth section, Academy and First Team, helping to establish a clearer pathway for locally developed players to progress into Open Age rugby.

Steve Grannon pays tribute

Vice Chairman Steve Grannon paid tribute to Ash’s remarkable service to Skirlaugh:

“Very few people have given as much to Skirlaugh as Ash has throughout his life.

“He has represented the club as a player, coach and Chairman, and he has approached every role with the same passion, commitment and determination to see Skirlaugh succeed.

“While we are naturally disappointed to see him step down, everyone at the club understands what a fantastic opportunity this is for Ash. He thoroughly deserves the chance to take his experience and enthusiasm into the professional game.

“On behalf of the committee, players, coaches, volunteers and supporters, I would like to thank Ash for everything he has done as Chairman and throughout his many years with Skirlaugh.

“He will always be part of this club, and it is reassuring to know that his experience and advice will remain available to us.

“We wish Ash every success in his new role at Hull FC.”

Always Black and Gold

Although Ash will no longer hold the position of Chairman, his relationship with Skirlaugh will continue.

He will remain available in an advisory capacity and will always be welcomed back to a club which has been central to his life since childhood.

Everyone at Skirlaugh RLFC would like to place on record their sincere thanks to Ash for his dedication, leadership and lifelong service to the Black and Gold.

The club wishes him every success as he begins an exciting new chapter in professional rugby league with Hull FC.

Details regarding the club’s future leadership arrangements will be communicated in due course.

Once Skirlaugh, always Skirlaugh. 🖤💛🥕