GENERAL manager Ian Wilson is hoping a bumper turnout will greet new head coach Gary Thornton and his new-look squad when York City Knights officially launch their 2013 season tomorrow night.

The annual season launch event takes place in Bar 13 at Huntington Stadium, and during the event Thornton will meet supporters and introduce them to the much-changed squad.

Fans will also be able to buy the 2013 replica shirts as well as the new season’s merchandise. Season tickets and vice-president packages will be on sale too.

Next year’s strip is again made by Centurion, with the home shirt in traditional club colours, predominantly dark blue with a white and light blue ‘V’. The away shirt is a break from the past, being predominantly hot pink, with thick black and white trim down the sides. Replica shirts, like last year, cost £42 for adult sizes and £35 for junior sizes.

The bar opens at 7pm and the players will make their way in from about 8.15pm onwards.That will be after their training session which tomorrow night will take place on the track at Huntington Stadium and in the neighbouring gym, rather than the new training centre at Nestlé Rowntree Park, formerly known as Mille Crux.

Wilson said: “It’s the first event of the season and it’s an opportunity for the supporters to meet the new coach and the players. These events are normally well-attended and we hope this year will be no different.”

Tickets will also be on sale tomorrow night for the York City Knights’ Independent Supporters’ Society’s Christmas family party night on Saturday, December 8, at Huntington Sports Club.

It starts at 8pm with a quiz followed by a raffle, four video races, including an auction race, bingo and a disco. Tickets are £5 for adults and £3 for U16s, to include a chicken and chips supper. Proceeds will go to the squad builder fund.