A NOVEL sponsorship drive has gleaned New Earswick All Blacks Under-11s a brand new strip.

And the side, who have won all nine of their games so far this season, have broken with tradition by altering the kit colours to black with amber from the usual club colours of black, white and red.

The team, formed at under-8s, had been playing in the same kit since under-9s level, though that strip had become a mix and match of four separate kits - indeed, on several occasions the squad ran out with three number fours.

With players also beginning to bust out of the shirts, the team decided it was time they got a new kit and they thought of a novel way to fund it.

Individuals and firms each paid £15 for a number between one and 49, with whoever had the bonus ball in the National Lottery having their name emblazoned on the front of the shirts.

The winner, coincidentally, was All Blacks first team coach Simon Baynes, of A&S Baynes Fruit and Veg. Two other sponsors who made notable contributions and had their names on the sleeves were Plumbtech and J Barron Plasterers.

Coach Phil Pool, the former York Wasps and Featherstone professional, said: "The team have been buzzing since being told of the new kit. I'm sure this has helped contribute to our fantastic start to the season. It has also stopped the embarrassing moments when the ref asked for the number four to come forward and three lads started walking."

Baynes added: "I've been involved in rugby league in York for a number of years and it's nice to put something back into the game, especially at junior level."

Players wanting to join the team can contact assistant-coach Mick Leaf on 0771 8518761

Updated: 11:25 Thursday, November 20, 2003