YORK rugby league stalwart Mick Ramsden says he is keener than ever to continue his long career following the success of York City Knights' maiden season.

The 31-year-old second-row temporarily retired from the professional arena after the demise of York Wasps last year but soon bounced back after regaining his enthusiasm for the game with amateurs New Earswick All Blacks.

Indeed, after signing back at Huntington Stadium, he played in all but three of the Knights' 31 games last season, and he now says his appetite is stronger than ever as pride has been restored to the ranks.

"I'm pushing to keep going," he said, dispelling rumours that he was considering hanging up his boots for good.

"I decided to retire last year because of what happened over the previous two years with York Wasps. It ruined my enthusiasm. But this season has made me want to carry on.

"The whole atmosphere is totally different to how it's been for years at York. People behind the scenes have done an incredible job. It's definitely the best-run club outside Super League - Steve Ferres (chief executive) has been quoted as saying that a few times and we believe it.

"One of the big differences this season is the fact that when you pull the shirt on you feel really proud to wear it. It was not like that over the last few years at the Wasps.

"Everyone puts 100 per cent in and that's what the fans want and what they deserve."

Ramsden, whose 12-year professional career has been entirely with York barring two years at Wakefield Trinity in the mid-1990s, has played 229 pro' games in that time, including 189 with York in their various guises.

"I don't feel like I'm getting to the stage where my body is telling me to pack in," he said.

"I've been playing with a bit of a stomach strain for the second half of this season but I've been quite happy with the way it went and I'm determined to push on for next year and try to improve even more."

In the meantime, Ramsden may return to All Blacks during the Knights' off-season to keep in condition.

"I'm looking to go back maybe one night a week for training and I wouldn't mind helping out, but I'm not going to play. I need a bit of rest. I played ten games for All Blacks at the start of last season before coming to the Knights, so I've played 38 games and I could do with a break."

Updated: 10:59 Thursday, October 02, 2003