Our club celebrated a proud moment on Saturday 3 October, receiving the RFL’s 2026 Community Club of the Year award at the Betfred Super League Grand Final at Old Trafford, where over 70,000 supporters gathered for rugby league’s biggest club occasion.

Club chairman Richard Stephenson collected the award on behalf of everyone at Shaw Cross. It was a fitting stage to recognise the dedication of all our volunteers, coaches, players, families and supporters who make our club such a special place.

The Sharks were shortlisted alongside Portico Vine and our local neighbours Dewsbury Celtic. Congratulations to both clubs on their nominations, with Celtic’s inclusion making it an especially proud occasion for rugby league in Dewsbury.

Shaw Cross also featured on the shortlist for the Our League Life Award, adding further recognition to a memorable year for the club and recognition for the 80 years of work the club has put into rugby league.

The celebrations continued on the pitch as Wakefield Trinity secured a fantastic 23–10 victory over Warrington Wolves to become Super League champions.

For Sharks supporters, there was an extra reason to cheer: one of our very own, former Shaw Cross junior Jay Pitts, delivered a fine performance as part of Wakefield’s winning side. Seeing a player who began his rugby league journey at our club help lift the sport’s biggest domestic prize made the occasion even more special.

This award belongs to everyone who gives their time and energy to Shaw Cross. From coaching and caring for players to maintaining our facilities, fundraising and keeping the club running, your contribution makes all the difference.

Thank you to everyone who plays a part in the Sharks family, and congratulations to Jay and everyone at Wakefield Trinity.

A day to remember, and an achievement for the whole club to celebrate.

Shaw Cross Sharks — Reaching Forward.