NORTH WALES CRUSADERS will go national by playing some matches at Bridgend in the south of the country next season – at a ground they will part own.

The 15-year-old Colwyn Bay outfit, who after originally being based in Wrexham have since 2021 used Stadiwm Eirias, were last year’s League One champions.

But they have had a tough 2026, with a makeshift squad suffering a string of heavy defeats since the club were revived in the wake of an insolvency event in May.

However the current group in charge, led by cryptocurrency specialist Jamie El-Kaleh, who previously owned Crusaders between May and December 2024, have big plans for a brighter future, which include widening their footprint and which they have been outlining to the RFL as they work to secure a licence for 2027 and beyond – and get the green light from the governing body to progress their Bridgend project.

They had already announced their intention to create a country-wide development pathway and start a second team based in South Wales.

Crusaders want to link into the Wales Rugby League Under 19 programme and provide extra opportunities for career progression.

They have also installed former player Ben Evans as chief executive and appointed Stuart Simmons, assistant to Carl Forster when League One was won, as coach for the next two campaigns.

In the first of those, some matches will take place at the Electric Brewery Field Stadium in Bridgend, in which the club, who will become Wales Crusaders, will have a stake.

And at the end of next season, a decision on where to play in the long term will be taken.

Brewery Field is home to rugby union side Bridgend Ravens and has a capacity of around 8,000.

“Securing our own home at Brewery Field is a transformative step,” said El-Kaleh.

“By investing in this infrastructure, we are not just building a foundation for the club’s sporting success, we are creating a vibrant hub which will significantly benefit the wider community.

“This commitment to long-term development will drive local business growth, foster deeper community engagement and ensure we leave a lasting legacy for generations of fans and residents alike.”

El-Kaleh added: “Our ultimate goal is to boost Rugby League in Wales as a whole.

“With our own home, we can build a genuine, continuous pathway from the under twelves right through to the first team.

“Furthermore, we are deeply committed to operating comprehensive women’s, wheelchair, and learning disability teams.

“This is about making Rugby League accessible to everyone in Wales and providing a platform where all talent can thrive.”