[VinnyP]

You might want to consider used especially if you are thinking about e-bay some of the slightly older mid-high range models might be a better bet for sports than lower end new models. A Canon 20D with kit lens should not be far off your budget. 5fps is a big plus for sports. Pros use Canon or Nikon for sports because of the system support not many use the 1DS Mk11 though, it's more likely to be the 1D because frame rate matters.

You may still want to hold off for the 40D since that will push the price of the still excellent 20D down further. Nikon haven't really got a competing prosumer in your budget, the D200 is a step up in performance but also price.
You are right that you will need more gear and, as has been said, sports lenses are expensive but the 20D will see you through a lot of glass before you will need to upgrade it. The lens is a different matter a budget choice for Nikon or Canon is a 70/75-300 zoom for about £130 new £100 2nd hand but they can disappoint and you will probably want to upgrade before long and the next step up is exponential.