York Wasps have solved their physio problem ahead of tomorrow's first match of the pre-season campaign.

Paul Howdle, physio for Beverley amateur rugby league club, will take on the job for tomorrow's encounter with Hunslet Hawks at Huntington Stadium (7.30pm kick-off).

He is then likely to be appointed long-term, finally ending the Wasps' search for a replacement for Dave May who left at the end of last season.

Howdle, who is also the physio for Great Britain Under-13s and Under-18s, is likely to continue his duties with Beverley while working for the Wasps.

Tomorrow's game will almost certainly go ahead despite the recent heavy downpours.

Chief executive Ann Garvey revealed the pitch was in good condition and said: "There is no doubt over the match providing the referee agrees it. The pitch is okay and it drains well."

A junior match between Acorn Under-8s and Hunslet Warriors will be played as a curtain raiser (kick-off 6.15pm).

The bar will also be open to spectators. It was originally thought the bar would not be available because it had been booked for a function but that has now been cancelled.

Entry prices for the game are £5 for adults or £3 for juniors and pensioners, and Garvey is hopeful plenty of people will turn out to get their first glimpse of Lee Crooks' new-look side.

She is also hoping there will be a good turn-out at tonight's fans' forum despite the weather.

Proceedings get under way at 8pm when members of the board, including Garvey, commercial manager Gary Hall, coach Lee Crooks and the players will be in attendance.

"There will be a lot of players that supporters know but also some they don't know, so one of the objects is for supporters to get the chance to meet them," explained Garvey.

York are continuing attempts to boost support next season by forging closer links with local schools.

They are running a competition for youngsters to design a poster, flag or banner, which must feature a Wasp, ahead of the opening match of the season against Doncaster Dragons on December 3.

They are writing to schools in the area with the details but are also inviting any which they miss to take part. An unlimited number of children from one school can enter the competition which will be judged at half-time in the Doncaster match.

Free tickets are being sent to the schools for pupils to attend the game. The school represented by the winning entry will receive a £50 prize and the winning child will get a signed Wasps shirt.

Schools wishing to get involved who are not contacted by the club can ring Garvey on 01904 634636.