London Skolars have signed talented youngster Martyn Smith from London Broncos. Smith is still only 19, having made his Super League debut in February 2010. The teenager can play at hooker and half-back and made a big impact whilst on loan to Hemel Stags in 2011, winning the Co-operative RLC National Young Player of the Year.

Coach Joe Mbu is delighted to secure Smith’s signature. “Martyn is a real talent, there are very few players that have made their debut in Super League at 17. The competition for places at hooker and scrum-half limited his opportunities at Quins. With Sam Gee moving to Whitehaven, it’s a real opportunity for Martyn to make his mark.

Smith lined up in Skolar’s first pre-season friendly against the Broncos Under 20s alongside another signing. Joe Price has returned to Skolars after 4 seasons away. The 26 year old centre played 41 games for the club between 2005 and 2007 and has since been playing Rugby Union with Ealing Trailfinders. It’s great to see Joe back at the club” said Head Coach Joe Mbu. “Ealing have moved up the union ranks to National 1 whilst Joe has been there and he should add a lot of strength and experience to the threequarter line”.

Also joining the club last week was Australian Alex Bate. The 20 year old loose forward arrived last week from New South Wales club Belrose Eagles and had his first taste of action a the weekend in Skolars’ game against Colchester Army Barracks.

All three are expected to be in Mbu’s squad for the Capital Challenge game against London Broncos, which takes place at the Honourable Artillery Club on Friday at 2pm.