Leeds Rhinos Foundation is delighted to announce that Phil Caplan has been appointed as the charity’s new Chairman. Caplan, who has been a trustee since 2010 takes over the role from Dr Neil Kaiper-Holmes who has held the role for the past 6 years.
During his tenure as Chairman, Neil has overseen many successes for the charity, including the growth of the health programme with the introduction of initiatives such as the men's health programme Try Club and an improved education provision which now reaches more people in the community.
The charity is now recognised as one of the top sporting foundation's and was recognised with accolades such as the 2013 Super League Foundation of the Year Award and the Best Overall Contribution at the Child Friendly Leeds Awards in 2015.
Neil also oversaw the production of the award winning promotional film 'Smiles Not Silverware', produced by Brass Agency that starred Rhinos player Jamie Jones-Buchanan and promoted the work Leeds Rhinos Foundation deliver every day in the Leeds Rhinos Community.
Caplan, who took the role of Chairman on 1st September, is a life long supporter of Leeds Rhinos, Chairman of the club's Heritage Committee and the co-director of Scratching Shed Publishing and Forty-20 magazine.
Bob Bowman, Leeds Rhinos Foundation Chief Operating Officer said:
"Neil leaves a lasting legacy not only within the Foundation but also the city and beyond. He has set the benchmark for leadership and I am pleased he will be continuing as a Foundation Trustee. I do not think there will have been many days during his 6 year tenure where he did not do something for the Foundation whether that be providing strategic direction or at the other end of the scale flipping 500 burgers and sausages on a BBQ at the Ambassador clubs festival!
"On both a professional and personal level thank you Neil."
"Phil Caplan not only brings 4 years experience of being Neil's Deputy Chair but also his unique and unrivalled level of knowledge of Rugby League and especially its positive role the game and its people can play in improving the Communities of Leeds. I know Phil wants the profile and awareness of the work of the Foundation to extend far beyond its traditional "fan base" and in that regard the whole staff team will be right behind him. Exciting times ahead!"