York City Knights supremo Roger Dixon is calling on the fans to again get behind the team in what he hopes will be a season to remember.

The extrovert chairman, who last year used a drum to get the crowds going at Huntington Stadium, this week thanked supporters for backing the club and wished for more of the same.

He said: "I am looking forward to the 2004 season with genuine anticipation. Let us hope that at the end of the campaign we may have cause for celebration.

"The aim is to have fun and to enjoy each match day experience to the full knowing that the players will enter each game intending to do their best."

He added: "Thank you to our vice-presidents and life members for being there for the club. I know there is still much to do and I hope that, when we fall short, supporters will bear with us."

Dixon extended his thanks to all who help behind the scenes at Huntington Stadium.

"To (chief executive) Steve Ferres, (majority shareholder) John Guildford and David Gorwood (of Promotional Identity), I record my thanks for the invaluable work each has done for the Knights.

"I would also like to thank everyone associated with the Knights for the part each has played in the pre-season preparations and for what they will do during the season.

"We are indebted to our main sponsor Phoenix Software as well as all our sponsors - corporate, private individuals and firms - whose support is so crucial in underpinning the club's continuing development and long term security.

"I also want to pay tribute to Colin Molloy and the ground staff for their efforts in improving the playing surface and maintaining the standards of the stadium.

"I extend a warm welcome to coach Richard Agar and players, both old boys as well as new. I hope they will enjoy the good fortune which even the best prepared of squads requires if it is to achieve success.

"Finally, may I thank the York Evening Press, BBC Radio York, Minster FM and York TV for their support. Without their coverage, the spreading of the Knights' message would have been much more difficult."