AS the summer days tick slowly by, the focus at Trafford MV ebbs away from cricket and settles on its rugby section as the new season rapidly approaches.

Pre-season is well under way - pitches have been re-seeded, cut and marked and players are working hard on fitness levels with around 30 players attending Tuesday and Thursday evening sessions.

The club has also brought in Lancashire RFU coach Dan Birchall to work on specific skill requirements.

Trafford MV have arranged three pre-season friendlies ahead of the real business with away games at Windermere, Manchester and Ashton on Mersey - success away from home is key to success in North Lancs Division One as several games involve long away journeys.

The club is busy on the recruiting front and is keen to see former players re-ignite their passion with the game while they are still young enough to play and contribute to the clubs success.

Many good players drop out of the game at a relatively early age due to work, family or social commitments - Trafford MV is keen to see these players back in the game and an open invite is put out to any players wanting to be part of the club's ambitious plans.

Trafford MV's season opens for real on the Bank Holiday weekend when Orrell RFC visit MV's MacPherson Park in the first round of the Lancashire Plate competition.

MV will be keen to impress against the once mighty Orrell and MV will be looking to make a statement.

MV's League season begins the following weekend when Littleborough are the visitors to the Sale based ground. The visitors are a strong outfit and will be a stern opening test to start the season.

Trafford MV's Wild Dooley said: "This is a traditional Rugby Union club - it does not pretend to be professional and pay players - it is a players club, run by players for the players.

"If you want traditional rugby values then Trafford MV is the place for you.

"We welcome players of all abilities and we have a thriving mini and junior section with many of our young players progressing through to represent their club at 1st XV level.

Our young players are not overtaken by players attracted by inducements.

"If you want to play for Trafford MV please come along to training or give me a call on 01942 884542.

"We would be please to see you and help you get fit for the 2014-15 Rugby Union Season."

Based on information supplied by Wilf Dooley.