Kendal Rugby Union Football Club has confirmed nine further changes to its playing squad ahead of the 2026/27 season, with four players re-signing and five new faces joining the Black and Amber. The club has also appointed two new board members.
The update was published on Friday 14 August 2026 as preparations continued for the new campaign. It gives further detail on the players expected to feature, while the club says more names will follow as squad information is finalised.
Four players commit to Kendal
The four additional re-signings are Andy Rogers, Joe Anderson, Dev Coyle and Dini Noyo. Rogers is progressing well after an operation, with the club aiming for him to return to the team in the New Year.
The confirmed players already set to return include Aaron Stephens, Alfie Bradshaw, Barney Coxon, Ben Dixon, Ben O’Halloran, Dan Shorrock, Dane Blenkharn, Glenn Chesher, Luke Atkinson, Matty Houghton, Ollie Rose, Oscar Coxon and Patrick Wolstenholme.
Ben Dixon will captain Kendal for a third season.
New signings bring experience and local links
Among the new arrivals is prop Finn Kennedy, who has made 35 appearances for Carlisle during the past two seasons. Hooker Angus Knight has also joined the squad after playing junior rugby for Kendal and Kirkby Lonsdale.
The club’s update records rugby links involving Syston, Thanet Wanderers, Loughborough and Kirtstall in relation to Knight, although it notes that available records differ over his recent playing history.
Arran Sulivan, a front-row player from Aspatria, is another addition. Zane Butler is returning to Kendal from New Zealand, bringing previous experience with the club.
Butler made his Kendal debut in 2008/09 and has scored 36 tries in 92 appearances. His earlier spell included the promotion-winning 2015/16 side, although he missed that season’s final match after breaking his leg against Leigh.
Club also announces board changes
Alongside the squad update, Kendal Rugby Union Football Club confirmed that Abby Alexander and Dan Stephens have joined its board as new members.
The announcements form part of the club’s preparations for the 2026/27 campaign. Kendal has said further player names are expected to be announced as they filter through.