HALIFAX were officially named as the top club outside Super League at last night's National League awards bash in Leeds - but chief executive Graham Clay is already focused on making the best even better.
Fax chairman Michael Steele picked up the Club of the Year crown at the star-studded event at Elland Road as the game's top bosses rewarded the Shay outfit for a year of progression on and off the field.
But Clay was quick to reiterate Fax's long term ambition of a return to the top flight when the next round of licences are awarded in 2011.
"This is a fantastic achievement and we'll enjoy the accolades now, but we realise there is still plenty of hard work ahead," said Clay.
"We are delighted that the Rugby Football League has recognised the huge steps forward the club has made this year, and I think it also serves notice of our future potential.
"We are firmly established as a leading Co-operative National League club, and attractive to players, sponsors and an increasing number of supporters.
"We operate with very small staff levels compared to other clubs, and I'd like to personally thank them all for their hard work through the year.
"But this award also reflects on the sterling work done by various volunteers, and the close relationship we have with the Supporters' Trust.
"We are working hard to create a stable and vibrant future, with the ultimate aim of returning to Super League.
"Under the franchise system all we can do is ensure we strive to meet and exceed the minimum criteria, and for every section of the club to be as professional as possible."
The judges cited Fax's increasing commercial portfolio - including its links with Eureka and the Evening Courier - as a key factor, along with another promising season on the field.
"There were many highlights, despite the ultimate disappointment of missing out on a Super League franchise and not reaching the Grand Final," said Clay.
"The initiative shown in bringing Melbourne Storm to the Shay for a truly memorable night, for example.
"In sponsorship terms, next season's shirt will be worth more than at any time in the club's history and with the completion of the East Stand to look forward to we can at last open up new income streams.
"I also believe the squad we are assembling for 2009 will lift us to new levels on the field too."
You say - comnments from last night's breaking storyKINGCROSSITE and EX Soldier: Thoroughly deserved Fax well done lads keep up the good work next 3 seasons!!!
Spanishbob, North Derbyshire: Well done Fax. This is only what we fans have been thinking about the progress of our club. Credit where credit due, there is a lot of hard work put in at the club that is not seen by the fans.
Crack on now for the next three seasons and keep the momentum off the field going.
Post your own messages belowThe full article contains 527 words and appears in Evening Courier newspaper.
