Newcastle Schools Sport Partnership

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Rugby League Thunders ahead in Newcastle

08/03/2010

Gateshead Thunder have not had the smoothest off season of their 10 year history but with the appointment of three Full time Community Rugby League Coaches they seem to be turning the corner at long last. With support from the RFL, Gateshead College and School Sports Partnerships from across the region Gateshead Thunder will now have coaches deployed across the North East, ensuring Rugby League continues to surge in popularity.
Covering Gateshead and Newcastle will be Ryan Clarke, a product of the Thunder academy and now first team regular. Ryan will be involved in all aspects of Rugby League in Gateshead and Newcastle, from coaching at Gateshead College to working with youngsters at schools and clubs across the region. Speaking of his appointment, Ryan said "Having come through the system at Thunder and been involved in the Rugby League academy at Gateshead College, I understand the needs of players in the North East and I am excited about being able to give back to a sport that has given me so much."
Sam Shaw-Kew, Community Development Manager at Gateshead Thunder, has said of the appointments "We were surprised at the high standard of applications we received for these posts, and we are really pleased with the three guys we have appointed. There is a vast amount of knowledge and experience between them and a fantastic desire to expand the sport in our region."
"Gateshead Thunder are passionate about North East Rugby League and these appointments will help us build a lasting legacy to help create the Ryan Clarkes of the future."
RFL North East Regional Manager Jo Drapier added "It's great to see such good quality coaches in place. I believe that Rugby League will grow from strength from strength in the North East; a key priority for the coaches will be to work with the local community clubs to help and support them in attracting new players. Another key area of work will be to work with the colleges and universities within the region to help increase participation in Rugby League. It's exciting times for Rugby League in the North East"