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Geoff Caplan RIP

It was with much sadness that the club learned this week of the passing of lifelong fan Geoff Caplan.

Geoff, the father of former Leeds Rhinos Foundation Chairman and Chair of the Leeds RL Heritage Committee Phil Caplan, was also a hugely supportive advocate of the work of Leeds Rhinos Foundation.

Leeds Rhinos Chief Executive Jamie Jones-Buchanan MBE paid tribute, he said, "Geoff was a kind, encouraging man who loved Leeds Rugby League and devoted so much of his life to supporting our club. From my earliest days as a 16-year-old academy player, and at every step since, he was always a warm and encouraging voice.

"His character embodied so much of what we cherish at the Rhinos: kindness, loyalty and a deep care for people. His presence will be greatly missed throughout the club, especially among our Taverners. On behalf of everyone at Leeds Rhinos, our deepest condolences go to the Caplan family."

Leeds Rhinos Foundation CEO, Bob Bowman QPM, added, “Geoff was a wonderful man who held a deep love of rugby league and a great passion for the work of our Foundation. He was a man of real integrity, with a strong moral compass.

“Above all, Geoff loved his family dearly. Everyone connected with Leeds Rhinos Foundation sends their deepest condolences to Phil and the wider Caplan family at this incredibly difficult time.”