Crawley Jets, who have been flying the flag for rugby league in West Sussex for the last four years, have set their long-term sights on a place in Super League.

Ten teams from the RFL's summer conference are to form National League Division Four from 2003 and Crawley see the new pyramid structure, with Super League as the pinnacle, as a pathway for them to reach the top.

Jets chairman Mark Richardson said: "If we can offer a national stage, then the balance around here will change.

"The best rugby players in the area will be more pre-disposed to commit themselves to league in the summer rather than union in the winter as a first choice.

"We have always had ambitions and this takes everything to a new level. There is no reason why we could not be a Super League club in time, the route is now there."

Crawley, the country's southernmost club, are arguably the most successful in the Conference, having contested three of the four Grand Finals so far, but they may face competition as they seek to climb the ladder.

Conference administrator Julian Harrison said: "It is a tremendous honour to be included in the new blueprint for the game.

"Ever since the announcement was made I have been fielding calls from aspiring clubs who want to try their hand in our regional feeder leagues."