Darlington Mowden Park are delighted to announce the signings of Joe Lane and Ben Dixon ahead of the 2019/20 National One season. The pair become the club’s first new signings of the summer, adding to the wealth of re-signings already confirmed. Both players will soon join up for the club’s pre-season training camp starting next month.

Outside back Joe Lane joins the club from Championship side Coventry, having previously represented England U18s. The 20 year-old, who can cover both full back and wing, commented: “This club has great potential and I’m looking forward to being part of the squad next season.”

“Mowden has a great following and has the talent to win the league, I’m looking forward to being a part of it all. It’s a great club for me to challenge myself, and everything is in place for the club to do great things next season.”

Lane is joined by fellow back Ben Dixon, who joins from Leeds Beckett University. The 22 year-old centre has been part of the Leeds Beckett team who reached the final of the BUCS Super Rugby Championship at Twickenham this season: “I’m really excited to start a new chapter of my rugby career at DMP after a great time playing BUCS Super Rugby at Leeds Beckett.”

“I was initially drawn to the club by the attacking brand of rugby and infrastructure which will help my development as a player and made my decision to sign an easy one. I’m really looking forward to meeting the lads, coaches, staff and supporters and having a successful 2019/20 season.”

Mowden Park’s Head Coach Garry Law was delighted with the two additions to his squad: “It’s great to have both Joe and Ben with us next season. They are both young lads who very keen to cut their teeth in National One rugby.”

“Joe has been involved with the Coventry set up this season and is a player who can really take the opposition on from deep with his counter attack ability with ball in hand and from the boot. We’re looking forward to Joe pushing his game on with us this season.”

“Ben has taking a different path than Joe and has been living the uni life the last few years and playing in a very successful Leeds Beckett outfit. He has been one of their stand out players this season and has a good mix to his game. He is defensively very strong but also runs some great attacking lines and can break the line.”

“Again we’re massively excited to work with both players and help push their games on which in turn will benefit Mowden moving forward.”

Joe and Ben have signed up for 2019/20 – Have you? You can now join the Mowden Family and purchase your Mowden Memberships online by clicking here.