HUDDERSFIELD YMCA are holding a pre-season fitness and conditioning session at Laund Hill on Thursday (7.00) in preparation for the serious build-up training which kicks off on July 22.

Newly-installed chairman Gary Haigh said: “We have re-structured the coaching set-up with a new team, headed by Jamie Marsden, in place for this season, and already we are seeing an upturn in interest at the club after last season’s disappointment.

“I’m delighted that we have already had a number of new players commit themselves to the club for the new season, and several more have shown a great interest and are set to train with the side before making their decisions.

“We desperately needed to stop the rot after being relegated to Yorkshire II last season, and we are looking at this season to more or less consolidate.

“A couple of quality players have already signed for us, and obviously we are looking to strengthen throughout the club, including the second team, so we have a side playing competitive rugby with sufficient players able to come into the first team if required.

“And away from the playing side I’m delighted to say that the state-of-the-art floodlights have been installed, and now we’re just waiting for them to be wired up.

“Obviously when they are operating it will give us several more options.

“All in all we’re looking forward to a good season and seeing as many players, or indeed anyone interested in playing at whatever level, turning up for Thursday’s fitness session, or for the full training session later in the month.”