London Skolars have announced three key players from last season have agreed new contracts for the 2014 campaign.

Long serving John Paxton, who received the coveted coach’s player of the year award in 2013, has again committed himself to the club.

Paxton made a total of 25 appearances last term.

Rob Thomas has also agreed a new deal. He scored 28 points last season including a memorable 19 minute hat-trick against Oxford at New River in May.

Sam Wellings is the third player to confirm he will remain with the Skolars next season.

Wellings, who had previously played for Championship One rivals South Wales Scorpions, joined at the end of May and went on to make 14 appearances for the club.

Head coach Joe Mbu said: “Whilst we have lost one or two players for 2014 it was very important that we kept the nucleus of the team.

“In retaining John, Rob and Sam the club have secured the services of three vital players, all of whom contributed significantly last season. With Dave Williams already signed up the squad is shaping up nicely for the challenge ahead.”