NORTH WALES CRUSADERS have announced another couple of squad additions ahead of next month's start to the League One season.

Cru have gained the signature of Alex Deery following a successful pre-season trial, while Wales under 18s international Jamie Jenkins is another to put pen to paper.

Deery, a teacher in the week, will be swapping the classroom for the rugby field at weekends, and has previous League One experience with London Skolars.

The 21-year-old former London Broncos product joined sister club Skolars in 2021 and played two seasons for the Wood Green outfit, making 23 appearances in 2022 and 2023 respectively, scoring six tries and kicking 13 goals.

Deery is a versatile back and can play in the halves or at hooker.

He told the club's website: "I'm really excited for the next chapter in my rugby league career.

"I'm looking forward to being a part of the Crusaders family and hopefully achieving great things with the club.

"I'm enjoying the new environment as it’s a change from the norm in London. The boys and coaching staff have been really welcoming."

Crusaders' head coach Carl Forster added: “Alex has come in on trial and shown real quality. He’s got a good running game and short kicking game.

"With more time with us and getting used to our plays and how we play, I’m looking forward to seeing him in a Cru shirt.”

Meanwhile, Jenkins has been in the Welsh rugby league system since the age of 13, representing East Wales.

A product of the Coleg Cymoedd pathway, Jenkins was then scouted for the London Broncos Academy.

Recently, Jenkins was selected to represent Wales under 18s, before being offered a trial in North Wales.

After a successful trial, he has now been added to Forster's 2024 squad, earning a one-year-deal.

Jenkins said: "I've really enjoyed my trial with North Wales Crusaders, I've had the pleasure to learn and be coached by amazing coaching staff, and I've been welcomed by a great bunch of boys, I can't wait to show the fans what I can do and I'm looking forward to rip in this season."

Forster added: “I’m delighted to bring Jamie in. His level of commitment shown in his trial period was something to be admired, he’s fitted in really well and I can tell he’s going to be a real talent.

"He’s young and keen to learn, and with time on the training field I have no doubt we will see him in a Crusaders shirt this season. It’s great to tap into this Welsh talent pool, and I’m hoping Jamie can set an example to others that with hard work and commitment that there is a pathway for these youngsters.”