MATT FOSTER got the Cougar Community Programme back in full swing this week after taking over from Jason Ramshaw.

Foster, who worked alongside his team mate for several years, will be leading the club's drive to take rugby league into schools throughout the district.

"We already have a total of 37 schools involved and would be happy to hear from any others who would like to join the scheme," he said.

Foster resurrected his professional playing career after things went sour following his transfer to Sheffield several years ago. He was back playing in the amateur game when he got the call to return to Keighley.

His decision to return to his old club has paid big dividends, both for Foster himself, and the club. He is enjoys playing again, and his enthusiasm has rubbed off on team mates on the field.

And now he faces a new challenge as the club's development manager.

Together with coach Jeremy Crowther he will be taking rugby into schools throughout Keighley and up into Skipton and Ilkley. "We will also be involving children in work about building a complete healthy lifestyle. It is not just about sport, but healthy eating and their all-round lifestyle."

As part of the scheme he will be working closely with upper schools across the district helping to develop competitions for junior schools culminating with a 'Festival' at Cougar Park.

"I hope I can build on the superb work which has been done here over the years.

"We will not only be working within the schools, but also helping to develop the club's scholarship scheme. We now have a pathway for young players to go all the way through to the club's first team which is an important part of building the sport in the district.

"We have also helped to launch a junior girls team and hope to build closer links with all the junior clubs in the district," he said.

The Community Programme was given a major boost when the financial backing of local companies, Harrison and Clough, Kone and Rex Proctor was doubled thanks to a £24,000 SportsMatch grant from the Government's fund to encourage business sponsorship.

Club chairman, Neil Spencer, said: "The community work is a vital part of the club and it is marvellous to see it being so successful.

"We are very grateful to the sponsors who have given tremendous backing over the years and SportsMatch funding will allow even more work to be carried out."