The University of Gloucestershire All Golds have made their first professional signing in securing the services of fast-paced and tough-tackling Keighley Cougars back row forward, Richard Jones.

In the last two years, Richard has represented the Keighley club in their Rugby League Challenge Cup tie against eventual Wembley winners, Warrington Wolves, and in 2011 played a key role in their successful Championship 1 season which culminated in a grand final victory against the Cumbrians of Workington Town.

He is now studying for his Masters in Physical Activity and Health at the University of Gloucestershire and recently made his first appearance for the University All Golds BUCS team in the Super 6, scoring his first try for the team in their opening day victory at Hull.

All Golds’ Board member Lionel Hurst, explains how today’s signing also has a historical significance: “It was on this date – Bonfire Night, Tuesday November 5 1907 – that the Keighley side almost became the first British rugby club to defeat the touring New Zealand All Golds when they went down by 9 -7 in a mighty clash at a packed venue. The All Golds are of course so named in honour of the famous New Zealand All Golds side which gained Test match glory when overcoming Great Britain 8 – 5 in Cheltenham in early 1908.”

Hurst continues: “The Keighley players of those early days were known as the hard men of Yorkshire football. A White Rose man himself, Richard follows in this tradition and we’re delighted to have him onboard. Moreover he embodies the values we are looking for in our players with a track record of fair and formidable play on the field. Richard will forever have the distinction of being the All Golds inaugural professional player and therefore his name and deservedly so is destined for the annals of the University of Gloucestershire.”

Richard is aware of the significance of his move to Gloucestershire and the trail blazing implications it will have for future players: “Securing the bid for co-op Championship 1 is a huge achievement for the club and it’s an even larger success for the Gloucestershire community being such a high rugby orientated area. The link between the All Golds club and the University acting as their backbone is unique. It means that all the foundations are already in place. It also gives the chance for players, such as me, to further their studies at the University whilst playing top level Rugby League. Signing for the University of Gloucestershire All Golds was a big decision for me, and has meant a permanent move down to Gloucester with my fiancée, Amy. I’m glad to say we’re all settled in and I can’t wait for what is to come in the forthcoming season. It’s going to be a very exciting year both on and off the pitch.

“I have been training with the lads since the start of September, as the Super 6 University League started in mid-October and there’s been a great ‘buzz’ around campus. The lads know each shirt for the All Golds squad is up for grabs for the season ahead in Championship 1, and they’re all desperate to earn a spot.”

The University of Gloucestershire All Golds Championship 1 side is open to all players and is not limited to students of the University of Gloucestershire. Open trials will be announced soon.