THIS is the face which will help to put the buzz back into York Wasps as they wing their way towards the next Millennium.

The image, which has already appeared on match-day programmes, has now been adopted as the official Wasps logo and will appear on everything produced by the club this season, from tickets to merchandise.

Plans are even afoot to incorporate it within the design of the new team shirts.

It is all part of a new image which club officials hope will bring it in line with the modern day game.

They are following the lead set by Super League in what is the first step of a new commercial drive aimed at drawing the fans back to Huntington Stadium for the start of the first division campaign.

And in a move away from tradition, the club are now to be known officially as York Wasps instead of York Rugby League Club.

Wasps marketing manager Mark Brayshaw said the logo, which has been updated from last year's programme cover, was essential if the club were to keep pace with the modern game.

He said: "It is a modern image which we think is a powerful marketing tool. We want to say the club has moved on and is a force to be reckoned with. It will be used right across the board. We want a coherent image to associate with the club.

"The stadium and the game is bright, youthful and modern and that is what the logo is supposed to reflect."

The wave of optimism sweeping the Wasps ahead of the season has also been reflected in the interest from sponsors, and Brayshaw is hopeful of completing several deals within the next couple of weeks.

The various sponsorship packages have now been drawn up for anybody wishing to support the club this season. They range from £1,000 for a programme advert to £12,000 for sponsoring the drill tops.

For more information call Mark Brayshaw on 0374 938487.

Meanwhile, Wasps hope to get the young fans flocking back to Huntington Stadium with the relaunch of the Junior Wasps.

The association fizzled out last season because of a lack of members, but a revamped package and fresh approach has once again given the junior supporters their own identity.

Efforts will be made to get the young York followers more involved in the club on match days and through events held during the season.

Membership costs £25, which includes a season pass, T-shirt, baseball cap, birthday card signed by the team, a 'goodie' bag and a signed framed photograph of the member with their favourite player.

Discussions are still under way about the possibility of devoting a section of the stand for members.

Other benefits, such as social events and get-togethers with other junior supporters clubs, will be considered as the season progresses.

All interested in joining the Junior Wasps should contact Leanne Cooper at the club office on 01904 634636.

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