Newcastle Thunder sign Mac Walsh

Former Wakefield Trinity academy prospect Mac Walsh has joined the ranks at Newcastle Thunder on a one-year contract.

The centre had previously been a part of the academy system at Super League side Wakefield Trinity before a decision to put his education first saw him move to study in the North East at Newcastle University.

The outside back initially crossed codes and was part of the union side at the university but has since gone back to his roots and joined up with the Thunder first team.

The 18-year-old impressed in pre-season training at Kingston Park following an invitation from head coach Chris Thorman.

Speaking on his decision to sign for the club, Walsh said: “I’m really excited to have signed for Thunder and get back to playing rugby league.

“Newcastle’s a great city and I’m really enjoying my time here.

“It’s been great meeting up with the lads in training and I look forward to what the season has in stall for the club.”

Newcastle Thunder head coach, Chris Thorman said: “Mac is currently a Newcastle University student but has gone through the academy system at Wakefield Trinity.

“He probably could have stayed with them and got himself a Super League contract, but in a decision to put his education first he took up the course at Newcastle University, which is something very admirable and shows the type of character he is.

“I had heard some great things about Mac and knew Mark Applegarth, head coach at Wakefield, held him in really high regard, so we invited him down to train with the squad and see how he got on.

“He really did impress. He’s only 18 so a young lad, but he’s well put together physically. He moves well, he’s athletic and very capable in the gym. Adding those things together with what he brings on the field, there really is a lot of potential in his game and I look forward to working with him on it.

“From the club’s perspective, our ties with the universities in the region is another pathway we’ve highlighted that can lead into the first team potentially. These connections are only going to help the club grow moving forward.”

Season tickets for Newcastle Thunder’s 2023 Betfred Championship campaign are on sale now.

From as little as £99 for adults and £10 for under-16s, you can secure you seat HERE.