North Herts Crusaders have selected a former Super League player to be their new head coach as rugby league continues to grow in Hertfordshire.

Joe Mbu – an ex-London Broncos, Harlequins RL, and London Skolars player – has joined the Hitchin-based club as Director of Rugby and Head Coach. He was previously head coach of Nigeria's club and London Skolars, receiving a 'Coach of the Year' nomination for the latter.

Since their establishment in 2012, North Herts Crusaders have developed a strong community presence while aiming to grow rugby league in the South – away from the sport's northern roots.

With more than 100 professional playing appearances under his belt, Mr Mbu said his main priority at Crusaders is to "get people excited" about the sport.

He said: "I'm passionate about seeing the game develop in the South and giving back to a sport that has given me so much.

"The club's values and its commitment to developing and bringing through young players are what really attracted me to the club. It's something I strongly believe in and it makes me very excited about the club's future."

Rugby league is growing in popularity throughout the country, with the announcement of Super League's 14-club expansion aiming to add to the sport's momentum this year.

Mr Mbu's arrival marks an important step for the award-winning Crusaders, who became the area's first multi-sport club when they introduced a women's rugby league team and a netball club in 2021.

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Chairman Josh Dell said that it is Mr Mbu's "incredible experience" that will be "instrumental" in developing the game of rugby league in Hertfordshire.

He said: "Joe is someone we've been aware of for some time and we're delighted to now have the opportunity to work with him.

"I'm thrilled we could make this appointment and can't wait to see what the year has in store for us."

For more information on North Herts Crusaders and the club's upcoming season, visit https://www.nhcrusaders.co.uk/