We are delighted to confirm the 2026 leadership group chosen by Head Coach, Dean Muir, to support the club as it embarks on an exciting 2026 campaign in the Betfred Championship.
Josh Eaves, has been selected as team captain following his debut campaign for the club in the 2025 season; hav
ving moved across from Swinton Lions. Eaves featured 22 times for the club crossing the tryline on 8 occasions last season. He has now been handed the responsibility as on-field captain, leading the team on field for the exciting next chapter of our history.
Upon his appointment Josh said, “It’s a great honour to be named captain ahead of the 2026 season. I’m incredibly grateful to the coaching staff for their trust, and I can’t wait to lead out this talented squad. I’m excited for what we can achieve together.”
A familiar face to our supporters, club stalwart Chris Barratt has been named as Club Captain for the 2026 season. Barratt who has 110 appearances for the club, is the longest serving member of the first team squad, joining back in 2020.
Chris said, “I’m thrilled to be trusted to hold this title, as we embark on the 2026 season. With some tough clashes ahead, I’m excited what we can achieve as a club in this new era”.
2025 signings, Lloyd Roby and Jordy Gibson have both been handed the roles of vice-captain completing the 4 man leadership group.
Lloyd had this to say on his appointment, “Being made vice captain of our group is an honour. How I act around the place won’t change, I want to be the best I can be and set standards both on and off the field, along with supporting Evo with his new role. We’ve got a great group of leaders amongst us so it’s about doing our job to the best of our ability and doing it consistently throughout the year.”
Jordy added “Grateful to be selected again to be vice captain for the 2026 season and to support Evo and the rest of the leadership group ahead of an exciting year ahead. Can’t wait to get started”.
Upon naming his first leadership group, Dean Muir added, “I am really happy with the leadership group. Everyone understands their role and how important it is for the group. Making Evo captain was an easy choice. He leads from the front and has high expectations. It is an exciting time to be a Crusader and these leaders drive the standard which will define our season.”
If you’d like to sponsor a player for the 2026 season, please email us on commercial@nwcrusadersrl.com