Hemel Stags have signed another crop of players to their 2013 Championship 1 squad.
Outside-back Aaron Small, props Ian Keevil and Aidan Pritchard, full-back Harry Mostyn and hooker Joel Miranda have all signed contracts at the Pennine Way club.
Head coach Troy Perkins said: ‘These five players have outstanding qualities and I am really looking forward to seeing how they integrate into the squad during pre-season.
“I expected big things from Aaron Small as he has a great attitude and has good experience of Championship 1.
“Ian, Aidan and Harry have come from a good environment at Loughborough University and Aidan has played a lot at Hemel.
“Aidan was one of the best props in the NCL 3 this year and I am looking forward to seeing him step up.
“Joel is a fantastic signing and I wouldn’t be too surprised if he was pushing for the Italian international side for the World Cup in 2013.”
The Stags have now started their pre-season training, with 35 players all vying for a place in the first game of the Championship 1 season.
Stags community manager Tom Williams said: “We are preparing well for next year and it is an exciting prospect to see an organically-grown club step into the professional ranks.”