DONAGHY RENEWS NEWCASTLE THUNDER TERMS

Fullback Alex Donaghy has agreed a new one-year contract with Newcastle Thunder for the 2022 season, as the academy graduate heads into a second season as a first-team squad member.

The first player ever to feature at all levels of Thunder’s academy, Donaghy made his first team debut back in 2019 in a pre-season friendly against Wakefield before making his first competitive starts in the Challenge Cup wins over Keighley Cougars and Siddal ARLFC in 2020.

Promoted to the first team for 2021, the 20-year-old made nine Betfred Championship appearances at fullback as he seized the opportunities afford him by Denis Betts and Eamon O’Carrol.

An intelligent play-maker, Donaghy’s first encounter with rugby league came when he found a flyer for a half-term coaching camp with Cramlington Rockets.

That lead to his enrolment onto the club’s scholarship programme and the start of a journey that has now led to a first-team status.

A player who is blessed with a strong running game and high levels of skill with the ball in hand, Donaghy’s talent has also seen him involved at England Youth level.

Speaking on the young local, head coach Eamon O’ Carroll said: “Alex took his chances in 2021 and I’m pleased he’s staying with us for at least another year.

“He’s one of our home-grown talents and being part of a full-time environment, I’m looking forward to him developing further and competing for more opportunities in 2022.

“He’s done well so far and has earned the opportunities that have come his way and he’s got the chance for more to come.”

Donaghy added: “I’m buzzing to have signed for another year with the club. There’s exciting times ahead and I’m proud to be apart of it.”

“The move to full time will be a challenge, but one I’m looking forward to. It’ll be a great chance for me to develop as a player.”

“I was really pleased with the opportunities I got last season, I learnt a lot along the way and can’t wait to see what happens this year.

“I’m hoping to kick on and enjoy my rugby and further show what I can do and fly the flag for us Geordies”

Donaghy joins Jake Anderson, Brad Day, Alex Foster, Tom Minns, Craig Mullen, Ukuma Ta’ai and Kyle Trout as confirmed members of Thunder’s 2022 squad, with more players to be revealed.

Season ticket memberships to enjoy all the Betfred Championship action at Kingston Park Stadium are now on sale, with adult prices starting from just £190 for 13 games.

Click here for more information and details of how to purchase.