by Stuart MartelTHE new head of amateur rugby league in York today outlined his aim to enhance the sport's proud tradition in the city.

Eurig Thomas, president of New Earswick All Blacks, succeeds Jim Race as the president of the York and District Amateur Rugby League Association.

The City of York councillor is currently devoting time to his duties as Sheriff of York but when his year of office ends in May he aims to afford more time to his new role.

Said Thomas: "I really believe in the importance of the amateur game, particularly locally, because the bottom line is it is a breeding ground for the higher standard of the game. If we cannot get that right we will not get the higher level right.

"York has a very proud tradition in the amateur game and it is a great honour. My aim is to maintain and enhance that tradition as much as possible.

"In my civic role I have found the amateur rugby league people are always warm, supportive and appreciative. Let's be positive and do as much as we can."

The Welshman admitted to never having played the game but was an instant convert from union to league when he moved north from the principality.

"I think rugby league is a fascinating, skilful game. I would not have been any good at it but I would have loved to have had a go," he said. "I was in my late 30s when I arrived in York. I had played rugby union but I was too old to play league."

Association spokesman Eddie Loftus said: "He deemed it a great honour. He is coming to the end of his year of office as Sheriff of York. He is president of the All Blacks and mad keen on rugby league."

The city has staged President's games for York representative sides against the British Police and touring Russian Militia and Australian Aborigine sides in recent years.

Thomas, also a member of the Friends of York Rugby League, said: "I am in favour of anything which sells the game, encourages the game and promotes the game."

Meanwhile, Thomas paid tribute to the work of outgoing president Race, who stood down earlier this year after three years in the post.

"I think Jim did a lot of good. He is an energetic person and has a flair for public relations. I think he has done a lot of good," said the new president.

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