THE Jamaican rugby league team are having a training camp at Heworth ARLC this week before flying out to Philadelphia for two World Cup qualifiers, writes Peter Martini.

Jamaica – who include a number of players with York City Knights connections, incuding new recruit Wayne Pryce – are coached by York-based former York Wasps winger Dean Thomas, who is assisted by Steve Pryce.

The latter, of course, now coaches Heworth’s first team and these links have seen the Caribbean crew set up temporary camp in the Minster city.

Seven players who play in Jamaica’s domestic league are flying over to the UK this week and will stay at Pryce senior’s Corner House pub on Burton Stone Lane.

The rest of the squad are England-based, including Pryce junior, former Knights winger Wayne Reittie, who has recently signed for Halifax from Batley, ex-York hooker Jamaine Wray, ex-Knights half-back Jy-Mel Coleman and top-tier dual code star Karl Pryce.

They fly out to the USA on October 14 and will meet South Africa on October 19 and the host country on October 22.

Several of the players, some of whom are amateur and others part-time professionals, are seeking sponsorship to help with their costs.

There will also be a fundraising event at the Corner House on Saturday, including a meet-the-players session, the Super League Grand Final live on television, and a karaoke.

Anyone who can help with funds or sponsorship can phone Dean Thomas on 07990 834905 or Steve Pryce at the Corner House on 01904 289239.