Lee Crooks is hoping to go back into the classroom to help spread the York Wasps' gospel.

The Wasps' coach has outlined a three-year development plan which involves introducing school children to the sport.

The only stumbling block now is finding a sponsor which would allow him to carry out the work full-time.

He explained: "It's not just about coaching the game but bringing the game to the youngsters, promoting the benefits of healthy living and the benefits of playing rugby league.

"If you can get the kids interested not just in the sport but in the club it will be good for the future.

"It will also help the amateur game in York. If you can bring the game to the kids they'll look for somewhere to play and you will direct them to the local amateur club."

A sponsor would allow Crooks, who is currently employed part-time by the Wasps, to take on a full-time role. The sponsorship money would also provide such necessities as a mini-bus and other equipment.

As it would be a community initiative, the club could double the money through the Sportsmatch scheme.

Crooks insists the Company Voluntary Arrangement, if it is accepted, will not affect the plans and could even make it a more attractive proposition for potential sponsors.

He said: "If we get the CVA passed and the club is debt free it would be a good time to invest in the club. With it being a community project there will be a lot of potential for a company to invest and get some good publicity."

Fans are being urged to get behind the Wasps on Boxing day to improve the atmosphere at Huntington Stadium.

The supporters cannot be faulted in their loyalty to the Wasps, but there is a tendency for the visiting contingent to out-sing the home fans. The noise made by the Keighley fans last week was a prime example.

Therefore supporters on the net have been discussing how to generate more atmosphere against Hunslet, including chanting, singing, wearing black and amber, bringing Wasps flags and even an air horn. Sounds like it could be a bit of a festive party so why not join in?

Paddy Handley is determined to repay the faith shown in him by Lee Crooks.

Crooks' arrival at York was one of his main reasons for turning down a new contract with Featherstone Rovers to sign for his home town club.

Explaining his decision, the 25-year-old said his work as a stonemason and travelling to training during the week was proving difficult. He said: "It meant I wasn't seeing my wife or two kids so I had to make a decision on that. I didn't think it was fair to say to Featherstone I'd only train on certain days.

"Secondly, I said I'd always come back to York and thirdly, when Lee Crooks got the job I thought he might come and approach me and he did.

"We did our Level Three coaching award together. I've got a lot of respect for him. I just hope I can come up with a win for him."

Handley has not been pleased with his performances so far and is keen to rediscover his best form. "I can't knock my defence but I'm not there to defend. I'm there to get us attacking.

"A few times I've given some good long balls out and we've proved we can play some exciting football. That responsibility is on my shoulders."

york Wasps Supporters Club are running a bus to the New Year's Eve fixture at Batley Bulldogs (ko 12.30pm).

The details have yet to be finalised but anyone interested in travelling can contact Michael after 6pm on 07703 344306.