WHAT'S in a name? Well, in the case of York City Rugby League Club, it's the future, writes Peter Martini.

And this is your chance to play a major part in that future - and win a replica shirt at the same time.

It was verbally confirmed last night that the new York club has been accepted to play in the Rugby Football League's National League division two next season after it raised the £75,000 required to meet RFL stipulations.

However, what the club needs now, as it strides towards its long-term goal of £250,000, is a new nickname with which they can take things forward. And that is where you come in.

To highlight the fact the new club is a community-based outfit, club bosses are giving you the chance to name it, in a competition run in conjunction with the Evening Press.

They are asking the York public to put forward their suggestions of nicknames for the club, and the one they deem to be the best will be incorporated into the club's full name.

It is recommended that the nickname has some connection to York's famous history, to rugby league in general, to the dawning of a new club, or whatever you think is suitable. The name should also be beneficial to a strong, long-lasting marketing campaign.

All you have to do is suggest your name and say in no more than 25 words why you think that name is apt.

By the way, the full name should take one of three forms: York ????? RLFC, City of York ????? RLFC, or York City ????? RLFC.

If the club think your idea is the best, then that name will be incorporated into the new club's official title and logo. And you will also win a brand new replica shirt.

If several entries suggest the same winning name, then the winner will be chosen out of a hat. Nicknames previously suggested through questionnaires handed out at supporters' meetings will also be included.

All replies should be labelled "York RL Name Competition" and put on a postcard or letter to the Sportsdesk, York Evening Press, 76-86 Walmgate, York, YO1 9YN. Replies can also be emailed to sport@ycp.co.uk

All replies will be forwarded to York RLFC. All usual Evening Press competition rules apply.

Closing date for entries is Tuesday, September 10.

The new name will be revealed on Wednesday, September 11.

Updated: 11:58 Thursday, September 05, 2002