Huddersfield YMCA head coach James Tindall is looking for his team to challenge for top spot. 

The YMCA first team currently plays in the Northern Division North One East, however the RFU are looking to change the league structure in time for the 2021 campaign. 

Tindall is confident, however, that by the time the 2021 season begins his team will be ready to roll. 

The 28-year-old said: “I’m not wanting to raise expectations too high but I do want us to try and challenge for that top spot. I want to coach at the highest level and I’m sure the players are the same.” 

Tindall took over the team last year and was appointed as head coach alongside former Yorkshire Carnegie and current Doncaster Knights coach Joe Ford. 

Ford and Tindall will be looking to become a dynamic duo and lead YM to glory in 2021. 

On the partnership with Ford, Tindall said: “Although I’m young, I have a lot of good ideas going forward and I think I can see games better than I ever can when I play. I think with my head coach partner Joe Ford coming on board and other people we could have a good crack at the league next year. 

“I think myself and Joe can build a really good relationship going forward. I am a forward and Joe is a back so we are both experts in our areas. I know I’m possibly going to annoy him by picking his brains all the time, though! 

“I am really excited to work with him. He will bring some fresh ideas and he’s very enthusiastic himself about what we can create at YM. I honestly believe we can have a really good go at trying to win the league next season.” 

Although Tindall will be coaching the side he will also still be taking his place on the pitch, whilst Ford will be conducting things from the touchline. 

“I don’t want to sound old but I am possibly coming to the end of my rugby playing days,” said Tindall.

“I will still be playing and helping the lads on the field and Joe will look at things from a touchline perspective. 

“I’ve really enjoyed stepping up. Coaching is always something I’ve wanted to do. I enjoyed taking the lads last year and I tried to make the training sessions as fun as possible and keep all the lads’ heads up while we got through Covid-19. 

“One of the things I had to get used to with the lads was going from being their teammate to then being their coach. However everyone has been really mature about it, which has been a big help to me. Ultimately I can now concentrate on trying to take us forward as a club.”