Featherstone's close to my heart says new commercial manager Karl Pratt

FEATHERSTONE Rovers have appointed their former player, Karl Pratt, as the club's new commercial manager.
New Featherstone Rovers commercial manager Karl Pratt with general manager Davide Longo.New Featherstone Rovers commercial manager Karl Pratt with general manager Davide Longo.
New Featherstone Rovers commercial manager Karl Pratt with general manager Davide Longo.

Pratt played in Featherstone’s 22–24 defeat to Wakefield Trinity in the 1998 First Division final and were his late try not chalked off, would have been the man to secure the club’s status in the top flight.

Pratt said: “Almost everyone I’ve met since coming back has mentioned my try that wasn’t and funnily enough here we are on the edge of Super League once again.

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“I didn’t want to leave the club then because it’s a great place to be. I knew as a player that the club was massive within the community and I want to be part of ensuring that remains the case.

“That’s why I don’t approach my dealings as a sponsorship, but as a partnership. Through those partnerships we can develop a relationship and because of that, one thing you can guarantee from me is transparency.”

Pratt was forced into early retirement through a persistent shoulder injury, but has been able to acquire a wealth of commercial experience as a result. This includes a specific knowledge within the rugby league environment through his time at Bradford Bulls, where he won the World Club Challenge as a player.

He explained: “Since I retired from rugby I’ve had a large amount of experience in sales and commercial management, but all this is just a job, whereas this is a little bit more.

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“Featherstone’s close to my heart. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve the things that I have if it wasn’t for this club and the people that are a part of it, so when the opportunity came I ran here.

“I’m hopeful that I’ll have an influence and an impact on this club and on its continued growth coming forward.”

Featherstone’s former try-scoring sensation now looks back fondly on his playing career, but has channelled his hunger and desire towards his job as commercial manager.

He added: “Fortunately I received every single honour in the game. Winning the Grand Final and representing my country would top the list of my proudest achievements.

“I’m quite confident that I can achieve a similar result in this role. I’m really looking forward too it.”