THE arrival of the Crusaders in Wrexham has given a huge boost to grassroots rugby league in the region.
And the Super League side’s success has especially acted as a catalyst for youngsters to start playing the 13-a-side code.
Four new teams have sprung up in the region and plans are in place for a North Wales conference comprising of the Montgomeryshire Marauders, Conwy Celts, Prestatyn Panthers and the Dee Valley Dragons.
Dragons has been launched in Corwen and will be playing friendly matches this year with the hope of joining a Conference competition in 2012.
Chairman Mike Parry said: “Most of our players come from Llangollen, Bala and Corwen, which is also the flow of the River Dee.
“We currently have a player base of around 25 at open age, and are looking forward to adding to this with a junior section starting with an Under 11s age group.
“Our training is on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7pm for open age and for the under 11s will be on Saturday's at 9.30am from June 25th.
“We are always looking for new players, sponsors and volunteers to help out at the club.”
Wales Rugby League president Mike Nicholas said: “Crusaders moving to Wrexham has had a massive impact.
“From our viewpoint it was a major event and a great opportunity to put down roots. It’s now a case of cultivating this interest.
“We’re looking at a mini conference in North Wales in the future which will be all about flexibility and providing a taste for people to experience Rugby League and get into it.
“Many of the local players are mainly Welsh speaking lads who were already big rugby league fans and the introduction of Crusaders provided the spark which encouraged them to become active players.”
To find out more about Dee Valley Dragons, contact Mike Parry on 07974199943, email deevalleydragons@btinternet.com or visit www.facebook.com /pages/Dee-Valley-Dragons/162028693860502