AMBITIOUS Kidderminster Carolians are hoping to avoid the injury problems of last season when they kick off their campaign on Saturday.

They travel to Kings Norton for a friendly before the first competitive match on Saturday, September 15, against Bridgnorth in the NPI Cup first round.

A big opener and large crowd will be expected at Marlpool Lane for the visit of the Shropshire side who have been promoted to KCs' league.

KCs finished the 2000/01 season with a strong run-in which they aim to carry over.

And they open the league programme at home to Aston Old Edwardians on Saturday, September 22.

Friendlies against Worcester are planned for Saturday, September 8.

Meanwhile, KCs are making leaps and bounds in the youth section.

Pete Hill has helped develop a good U-16s and hopes they can take a step further as U-17s, possibly playing colts rugby on Saturdays.

Some have already had a taste of second and third team rugby and look to be good prospects.

The club has also introduced women's rugby to the town with an excellent turn-out at training and competitive matches not far off.

Fixtures, Saturday: Kings Norton v KCs, 1sts away, 2nds home, 3rds away.