York Wasps are calling in the Army to ensure they are in tip-top condition for the start of the new season.

The players are to be put through their paces during a special training day at Strensall Army Barracks on November 4.

As well as providing them with a change of scenery and a variation in their normal training routine, it will also act as a team building exercise.

Coach Lee Crooks admitted that, with so many new faces brought into Huntington Stadium this summer, it would take time for the team to gel.

However, he revealed that team spirit was now improving and hoped the Army training day would aid the process.

"There is a nucleus of players that were at the club last season but we've had a fair amount of new players come in," said Crooks.

"It takes a while for players to get to know each other and get pally. We are now just getting an influx of the lads having a bit of banter and the team spirit is building."

The training weekend should be a big bonus for the lads before we go into the game (against Hunslet) on the Friday."

Crooks is viewing the pre-season games against Hunslet (November 10), Featherstone (Nov 17) and Gateshead (Nov 26) as trial matches rather than friendlies.

He said: "Players are playing for their shirts. Everybody will get a run out. By the Gateshead game I should know who the team will be for the first league match against Doncaster."

The evening before their opening friendly, on Thursday, November 9, the Wasps are holding a supporters forum at Huntington Stadium (8pm start).

The board, players and coach will be on hand to answer questions and lay out their plans and hopes for the forthcoming campaign.

All supporters are welcome to attend.

Tickets are also on sale for the Sportspersons Evening on Wednesday, November 1, which will be held in the Gimcrack Suite at York Racecourse.

A full night's entertainment is planned with a comedian and compere. Tickets are £25 per head and women are welcome to attend.

For details of the above events, contact Ann Garvey at the club office on 01904 634636.