New Earswick All Blacks have been boosted by the return of amateur international second rower Lee McTigue.

The 22-year-old's contract is being retained by York Wasps but as he is unable to play regularly due to work commitments they have given permission to turn out for the All Blacks.

Centre Jamie Rhodes, brother of Leeds Rhinos starlet Scott, is also back in the New Earswick ranks after missing last season through work commitments.

Six of last year's Under-18s will be available again as they are no longer eligible for York Wasps Academy.

However, two of the Under-18s, Carl Barrow and Lee Paterson, have moved on to bigger and better things. Barrow has joined Castleford Tigers and Paterson has gone to Wakefield Trinity Wildcats. Both have signed on amateur forms and are currently playing for their respective clubs' Alliance teams.

All Blacks, who will again be coached by Mick McTigue, kick-off their season at home to Normanton Knights on Saturday.

York Acorn will be looking for a repeat of last season's result when they open their campaign at Hull Dockers in the second division.

The Hull side, touted as title favourites, were surprisingly beaten on their own turf by Acorn last term.

There has been plenty of activity at Thanet Road during the summer.

Former York Wasps trialist John Hough will be an ideal replacement for winger Tim Wilcock, who will miss the start of the season through injury.

Hough, 23, is a school-teacher from Rufforth who has played winger and full-back with rugby union club Upper Wharfedale.

Prop Chris Soulsby, 21, has played for Upton and impressed during Acorn's pre-season friendlies, including the recent 24-10 defeat at East Leeds.

Another newcomer is rugby union convert Alex Cowton, 28, father of Acorn Under-8s 'A' player Ben. The winger/centre has joined the Blue and Golds from Malton and Norton rugby union club.

Nineteen-year-old Lee Archer is totally new to rugby league and will start in the 'A' team.

Former New Earswick junior Mark 'Mojo' Mosey is another addition. The 24-year-old has been out of the game for four years.

Acorn also welcome back former junior Ricky Morrow, a second row or centre. After leaving Acorn he went on to impress with York Academy and in the students game.

Stalwart Mick Lumby has taken over as coach of the 'A' team from Kevin Warters and Tony Sissons who did a good job.