BRISTOL Sonics are looking for new players ahead of their first season at rugby league's national level.

The first team have stepped up to Conference League Three after winning the Midlands Premier title last summer.

And with the first fixture on April 21, at home to experienced Leeds outfit Kippax Knights, the Sonics now have two months to get themselves match-hardened for their most demanding season yet.

Head coach Karl Fearnley, pictured, said: "Most of the squad have been training since the start of the year and now is the time to kick on and prepare in earnest for the season. But the door is very much open to new players who want to test themselves at this level."

The dates for the next few weeks of pre-season are as follows: Tomorrow – Indoor Training (Indoor 3G, Wise Campus, SGS, 8.30pm); Sunday – The Downs (Water Tower, Durdham Downs, 2pm); Thursday, March 1 – Indoor Training (Indoor 3G, Wise Campus, SGS, 8.30pm); Sunday, March 4 – Trial game (location to be confirmed).

The first-team squad will be announced in mid-March, following a second trial game.

First-team benefits include free away travel, use of the SGS WISE Campus gym and a discounted kit package. For more information, contact Karl Fearnley at karl.fearnley@bristolsonics.com or on 07884 315237.