Worcester Wolves have snapped up a second American player in forward Ty Shaw.

The 6ft 8in player is from Albertson University, Idaho and was selected from a short list of five foreign players.

He joins fellow American Josh Cooprider at the University College Worcester-based National League Division One club.

The club considers Shaw a significant signing, having lost several games by narrow margins last season as a result of not dominating their rebounding.

Director of Basketball Mick Donovan said: "We have spent a great deal of time looking at Ty.

"Whenever we have watched him play or spoken to our people in the States, the outcome is always positive. He brings a strong game with an enthusiastic and positive outlook."

Shaw will combine playing with Wolves with studying at UCW and coaching on the club's primary schools programme.

He will also join Cooprider at the thriving basketball initiative at Malvern College.

Managing director Roger Clarke said: "Everyone at the club is very excited about this player and we hope the youngsters in the city will learn from him too."

Wolves are to launch two new teams next season, including a women's side.

After securing funding with the widening participation programme in partnership with UCW, the Wolves Women will start up next season in the National League Division One.

Donovan said: "As the club grows, we are aware that there are several strong players in the region and there are lots of young girls attending our coaching camps. The decision was an easy one."

The project acts to encourage females to combine study with playing while involved in higher education.

Players, who do not necessarily have to be students, are invited to attend a trial on Saturday, May 24 at 2pm at UCW.

Susie Hart will co-ordinate the team off the court and Chris Lowe (Wolves men's assistant coach this year) will lead a team of coaches on the court.

Anyone interested can contact Susie Hart or Mick Donovan at UCW on 01905-855442.

Wolves also plan to launch a second men's team next season, the Worcester Dogs, who will play a series of games on Wolves match days next season with a view to entering Division Two of the National League the following season.

This follows a growth in the number of players approaching Wolves and the large numbers applying for places at UCW to combine study and play.

Donovan added: "There are many players in the community and at UCW who have the potential to play at the highest level. While they are working towards that we intend to field a second team to help in this transition.

"The programme is acting as a great vehicle for uniting the community and UCW. In any one week in the season over 2,000 people are playing, spectating or coaching."