THERE is a buzz in the air at Ilkley since the advent of pre-season training at the beginning of July.

More than 50 players have been attending training and word has it that further players will be joining very soon in September.

Chairman of rugby, Graham Wilson, reports that things are happening down at Ilkley and indeed the enthusiasm by players is confirmed by head coach, Simon Tipping:

"I am impressed by the team spirit shown by both new and existing players," he said.

This pre-season training has concentrated on unit skills and defence and the commitment shown by the players bodes well for the coming season.

A club trial was held on August 8 followed by a trial match against Roundhegians on August 14, the Leeds 10's competition the following weekend and a further trial against Skipton on August 26.

Tipping has tried most new players and different combinations.

The next two important games for Ilkley were against Otley (away) in the Bucknall Trophy last night, and at home to Moortown on Saturday, September 4.

Head coach Tipping declared these two matches are vital preparation for the first league match at home to Castleford on Saturday, September 11.

The following week sees Ilkley away to Old Crossleyans in the National Intermediate Cup before returning to league action at Thornensians.

Tipping is pleased with the way preparation has gone for the new season and will not be drawn into any predictions.

Clearly, through, Ilkley will want to improve on their mid-table position of last season in what remains a tough league with the arrival of high-flying Scarborough and Hemsworth from Yorkshire Two, and the return of Bradford Salem and also Thornensians from North-East Three.

The pre-season build-up has included team building and orienteering along with basketball and a tug of war at the Nell Bank Outdoor Centre in Ilkley followed by a successful barbeque at the club.

Ilkley are captained in this, their centenary season, for the first time by a Kiwi scrum-half, Jimmy Carr, a Taraiki squad player who played at the club very successfully last season.

He is joined by several new players from local clubs and two former Bradford University Rugby League players who will be welcome additions to strengthen the backs.

Andrew Merkin, hooker, returns to the club from Otley, with several First XV games under his belt.

Ilkley are looking to gather strength in depth as quickly as possible to enable them to acquit themselves well in Yorkshire One this season.

Tipping is looking forward to a big local following for the first home league match against Castleford on September 14 when all support will be warmly welcomed.

The club is delighted to be fielding a Veteran's team this season and will welcome all players who are over 30 and looking to enjoy pitting their mature skills against other clubs.

The Second XV will be captained by Graham Wilson and the Third XV by Paul Withington.

The Centenary Sportsman's Dinner will be held on October 28 at the Craiglands Hotel.

Contact Jack Tipping on 01943 608063 for ticket details and further information.

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