MARK SOWERBY has added former Yorkshire rugby union captain Glen Wilson to his backroom team as Huddersfield gear up for the challenge of National III North.

The Lockwood Park head coach was hoping his former Wakefield teammate would take over the No8 berth he vacated after leading the club to promotion last season.

But Wilson, who also played for Otley and Doncaster, has also hung up his boots, in his case at the age of 31 because of a persistent back problem.

“The advice has been given by doctors, so that’s not the kind of thing you ignore,” explained Sowerby.

“It’s a shame Glen couldn’t continue for a further season, especially given my decision to concentrate on coaching.

“But his massive experience will be very welcome, both on the touchline on match days and on the training ground.

“Because I’m quite often abroad with my job, I’ll miss some sessions, but Glen will be able to work with the forwards on a regular basis.

“He was very keen to stay involved in the game, and when it comes to coaching philosophy, we’re both singing off the same hymnsheet.”

Sowerby’s coaching team also includes backs supremo Neil Summers, another who played alongside Wilson at Wakefield.

Huddersfield have confirmed two friendlies in the build-up to their league opener away to Lytham club Fylde on Saturday, September 6.

They head for Beverley on Saturday, August 23 and another North I club, Chester, seven days later, August 30.

“Both those sides should provide a good test,” said Sowerby.

“Chester is always a tough place to go while Beverley were up in National III last season and have retained most of their players.”

l The Ospreys begin the defence of their EDF Energy Cup at Harlequins on the weekend of October 4/5.

The four groups of four teams, with one Welsh region in each, are the same as last season, with London Irish and Worcester in Group C with the Swansea-based Ospreys and Quins.

Newport-Gwent Dragons, Gloucester, Wasps and Newcastle are in Group A, and 2008 runners-up Leicester in Group B with Cardiff Blues, Bath and Sale.

The final pool comprises Llanelli Scarlets, Bristol, Northampton and Saracens.

Sides who had two home games last year in the group stages now get just one, while those who had to travel twice last season get an extra home fixture.