Old Crossleyans will kick-off their North I East rugby union campaign with a crunch home derby clash against promoted Huddersfield YMCA.

Saturday, September 7 is the date Crocs, who have made former Rotherham player Neil Spence head coach, are looking forward to.

In Yorkshire I, Heath host Wath-upon-Dearne while Old Brodleians are at home to Dinnington.

The derby clashes are on October 12 (at Heath) and January 25 (at Hipperholme).

Promoted Old Rishworthians’ first game in Yorkshire II will be at home to Sheffield Medicals.

And in Yorkshire IV, Saturday, September 14 marks the start of the season, with Halifax facing Sheffield Oaks at Ovenden Park and Vandals hosting Mosborough.

The derbies are on November 30 and March 8.

The Crocs’ post is a first head coach’s role for Spence, who also played for Hull and Otley, has been forwards coach at Ilkley and is a regional development officer for the RFU.

As well as Huddersfield YMCA, new opponents for the Broomfield side, who were seventh out of 14 clubs last season, are relegated West Hartlepool, once a Premiership club, and promoted trio Alnwick, Driffield, last season’s Yorkshire I champions, and Rochdale.

Rishworthians aim to maintain the momentum of last season, when coach Damian Ball led them to title glory in Yorkshire III and full-back Aaron Canning scored 382 points.

Flanker Chris Dyson was named player of the year and lock Fraser Swarbrooke took the players' player prize.