THE president of Church Stretton Samurai Rugby Club says he cannot wait for the club's first ever league game this Saturday.

The club, which was only formed 14 months ago, will be travelling to Stourport for a Midlands Five West (North) encounter.

Club president Barrie Oxtoby, who helped form the club with Church Stretton School teacher Martyn Longhurst, said there is a real buzz in the town ahead of the new season.

"We are looking forward to it immensely," said Oxtoby.

"This is our first season as an affiliated rugby club and we can't wait.

"Stourport is our first game, then we are home to Warley the following Saturday.

"A special celebration is being played for that match.

"We have played a series of friendlies and we believe we will be able to hold our own.

"The reaction in the town has been tremendous and three times last season we had crowds of over 200.

"There is already a buzz in the town and to have a senior rugby team is tremendous."

Stretton will have three teams competing this season.

As well as the seniors, there will also be a Colts team and an under-17 side.

Press officer Jack Titley said that the senior team includes a mix of young and experienced players.

"Local lads Daran and Thom Chard, Nick Morris and George Bagley have arrived from Ludlow and we are hoping many of the Colts will make the step up to the senior team this season," said Titley.

"Captain Ben Speake will miss the first part of the campaign due to work commitments, but there is plenty of experience and leadership within the squad to make up for the loss.

"Last season's top try-scorer Tom Ward will be adding pace out wide, centre Ash Passant and full-back Jay Houghton will be competing for kicking duties and forwards Jack Welch, Dom Wilding and Nick Evans will be adding the muscle up front.

"Overall, there is now talent throughout the side and competition for starting places will be high."