Coventry bring in trio

Coventry Bears have signed Andrew Hoggins, Ben Stead and Joel Thomas for the 2018 campaign.

Hoggins is a Germany international and has joined from Oxford and has a lot of experience in League 1.

And the centre is looking forward to getting started next season.

He said: “I’ve enjoyed playing against Coventry in the past, as they were always a more physical side and played an exciting and expansive game so I was keen to sign.

“I hope to perform well in pre-season and secure a spot in the starting 17 each week.”

Stead has signed from Gloucestershire All Golds and has represented England Universities and made the World XIII team as the best half-back at the World Cup in Australia.

And the half-back is excited to have joined the Bears.

He said: “After two games against them (Coventry), I could see that there is a good ethos at the club and a strong coach in Tom Tsang who I am looking forward to working with come pre-season.

“I will look to help build on last year and hopefully gel into the team quickly.”

Meanwhile, Thomas signs after spending two years away from the sport but has previously played for Oxford and Gloucestershire All Golds.

He grew up in the South of France and played for the Catalans Dragons Academy.

And the front-rower revealed that he wants to gain a lot of experience in 2018.

He said: “As a young player, I’m looking to develop my strength and skills in order to become a better all-round player for my position. My goal is to play every single game with the Bears and most importantly become part of a strong Midland-based team.”