11 Jan 2023

Newcastle Thunder confirm coaching set-up for 2023

As the club continues its pre-season preparations, Newcastle Thunder is delighted to confirm its first team and academy coaching structure for the 2023 season.

Chris Thorman is at the helm assuming the role of head coach, and is joined by his assistant coach Mick Mantelli, who remains at the club having joined in 2015.

Martin Nugent and Jon Mason make up the strength and conditioning team, putting the squad through their paces in preparation for the season with first team physio Cheryl Scally picking up the pieces along the way.

Paul Foster, the club’s kit man, assures all players are properly kitted out and Ian Blain is on hand to assist with any serious injuries, assuming the role of club doctor.

Supporting the first team but focusing on the development of players we have academy manager Graeme Neighbour. Neighbour is supported by a plethora of academy coaches from Under-16s through to Under-18s.

Former club captain Jason Payne is our academy Under-18s head coach, with Adam Houston providing support in his role as academy Under-18s assistant coach.

At Reserves and Under-16s level, former Jamaican international and the club’s record appearances holder Joe Brown returns to the club as a coach alongside new signing Rhys Clarke also returning in a player-coach role from Workington Town. Todd Wilkinson completes the set-up, having also been confirmed as an academy Under-16s coach.

Earlier in the season Newcastle Thunder announced a new player pathway programme, split between north and south regions. This has seen a number of development coaches assigned to lead and carry out the programme in each area.

Tackling the north, we have three development coaches in Danny Gilroy, Keith Wilson and Adam White. In turn tackling the south, we have another three development coaches in Mike Thompson, Jason Grant and Gavin Cole.

Finalising the staffing structure, we also have Joe Martin, the academy strength and conditioning coach ensuring the younger players are prepped and ready should they ever be called upon, with Brianna Haunch assisting as the academy physio.

Speaking on the announcement, general manager Jordan Robinson said: "We’re delighted to confirm our coaching set-up for the 2023 season.

“There’s no doubt been a big shift from last year, but with the strong leadership from Chris Thorman the club is in a great place.

“We’ve put a strong emphasis on developing within and improving the club’s accessibility throughout the region and community, so it’s great to see such a strong academy set-up.

“It’s a reflection of all the hard work put in by academy manager Graeme Neighbour, and we look forward to seeing how the season goes.

“I want to thank all the coaches and back-room staff for their hard work so far, and we can’t wait to get stuck in to the 2023 season.”

Newcastle Thunder’s season kicks off on Saturday January 14 with a pre-season friendly against Keighley Cougars. Tickets are on sale NOW and can be purchased HERE.

Newcastle Thunder season tickets are also on sale. From as little as £99 for adults and £10 for U16s you can secure yours today. Simply click HERE.

2023 Newcastle Thunder coaching set-up in full

Chris Thorman – First Team head coach

Mick Mantelli – First Team assistant coach

Martin Nugent – First Team S&C

Jon Mason – First Team S&C

Cheryl Scally – First Team physiotherapist

Ian Blain – Club doctor

Paul Foster – Kit man

Graeme Neighbour – Academy manager

Jason Payne – Academy U18 head coach

Adam Houston – Academy U18 assistant coach

Joe Brown – Reserves and U16 coach