To put it in perspective, the first force that Stark sends down south are called “The Winter Wolves” led by Roddy the Ruin, all old men who want to die in battle rather than live out the rest of their lives.
Though they’re old, their fierceness and disregard for their own life bring them victory after victory. Eventually, the force of old warriors reach their goal and perish. But can the Hightowers really call it a victory? When Rhaenyra asks for more support Cregan Stark pledges to send his actual army of ten thousand soldiers.
Source: https://www.distractify.com/p/who-is-cregan-stark-house-of-the-dragon