WORCESTER Wolves hopes of making an impact in the National Women's Basketball Lleague have been boosted by the arrival of star players Sam Rooke and Gloria Jenkins.

The duo were among several players from across the Midlands who attended Wolves' first women's training session in a bid to stake a team place for the their forthcoming debut season.

Twenty four girls travelled from as far afield as Leicester, Birmingham, Redditch and Coventry for trials.

A major bonus for the Wolves was the arrival of Rooke, a former point guard for the top Conference side Rhonda Rebels. Rooke is recovering from injury at the moment but arrived at the session to confirm her commitment to the exciting campaign.

Rooke is currently playing and coaching in Coventry.

One of the highlights of the day was the arrival of Jenkins from the London Towers who is hoping to pass her exams and come to University College Worcester to combine studying and playing at the highest level.

Jenkins is the first potential student to come to Worcester following the partnership between the Wolves, University College Worcester and the widening participation project.

It is anticipated that Jenkins will be awarded a bursary from the Wolves to support her playing and studying while in Worcester.

Jenkins said: "I am really excited at the prospect of coming to Worcester. I love playing basketball and this would prove to be a great challenge."

Despite being only 18 Jenkins has already played for two seasons in the National League with the London Towers.

She will also be actively involved in the club's coaching programme with youngsters out in the local schools. Wolves' director of women's basketball Susie Hart was pleased with the first session.

"It was a very encouraging first session," she said. "The coaching staff were pleased with the standard of play and we are aware of interest from other players who could not attend today."

Director of basketball Mick Dawran said: "We know that it will take time to build a team from scratch but we believe that we have learnt a great deal in our first three years with the men's team and the background staff at the club now rank with the best in the country."

The next session is on Saturday, June 21. Anyone interested contact Susie Hart on 01905-855562.