York Knights Bolster Championship ranks with Strategic Super League Signings
Are you a York Knights fan eager to know how your team is shaping up for a potential Super League promotion? Or perhaps you’re a rugby league enthusiast tracking player movements across teh leagues? The York knights are making important moves,adding firepower and experience to their squad with the signings of Justin Sangare and Jon Bennison,alongside earlier acquisition Sam Wood. this article dives deep into these key signings, their potential impact, and what it means for the Knights’ 2026 Super League aspirations.
York Knights Secure Super League Talent
the York knights have announced the acquisition of two notable players from Super League clubs: justin Sangare, a powerful prop from the Salford Red Devils, and Jon Bennison, a promising winger from St Helens. these signings, coupled with the earlier addition of center Sam Wood from Castleford, signal a clear intent to strengthen the squad as they await the outcome of the Super League expansion decision.
Introducing Justin Sangare: A Force in the Forward Pack
Justin Sangare, a 27-year-old France international, brings a wealth of experience and physicality to the Knights’ pack. In 24 appearances for Salford in 2025, Sangare consistently demonstrated his ability to impact games through strong carries and dominant tackling.
* key Attributes: Power, aggression, international experience.
* Impact on York: Sangare will provide much-needed strength in the middle of the field,bolstering the Knights’ forward line and offering a potent attacking threat.
* Recent Performance: Sangare’s consistent appearances for Salford highlight his reliability and fitness.
Jon Bennison: Adding Flair to the Backline
At just 22 years old, Jon Bennison is a dynamic winger with a proven track record in Super League. Having played 80 league games for St Helens, scoring 21 tries, and being part of their 2022 Grand Final-winning team, Bennison possesses both skill and championship pedigree.
* Key Attributes: speed, try-scoring ability, big-game experience.
* Impact on York: Bennison’s pace and finishing prowess will add a new dimension to the Knights’ attack, providing a constant threat on the wing.
* Grand Final Winner: His experience winning a Super League Grand Final is invaluable.
A Strategic Boost Ahead of Super League Decision
These signings come at a crucial time for the York Knights. The club is currently awaiting a decision on their request to join the expanded 14-team Super league for 2026. According to the BBC, the outcome will be revealed later this week. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-league/articles/c2en43kvwdyo). Adding players of this caliber demonstrates the knights’ ambition and readiness for the step up.
The Knights, runners-up in the 2025 Championship Grand Final, are clearly positioning themselves for success, regardless of the Super League outcome. The addition of three players from Super League – Sangare, Bennison, and Wood – showcases their ability to attract quality talent.
Contract Details and Future Outlook
While the York Knights haven’t publicly disclosed the length of contracts for Sangare, Wood, or Bennison, these signings represent a significant investment in the club’s future. The focus now shifts to integrating these players into the team and preparing for the challenges ahead.
York Knights Head Coach Andrew Henderson expressed his delight with the new signings, stating (via the club’s website): “It’s a very exciting time to join the club and keep building on the great success this team has already had.” (https://www.yorkrlfc.com/post/benison-becomes-a-knight).
Understanding the impact of Recent Rugby League Changes
The recent expansion of Super League from 12 to 14 teams is a game-changer for the Championship.According to Love Rugby League, this expansion creates new opportunities for ambitious clubs like York
