Performance & Pathways Partnership

New Era for Rugby League in the North East as Newcastle Thunder Launch High Performance & Pathways Partnership with York RLFC and Penrith Panthers

New Era for Rugby League in the North East as Newcastle Thunder Launch High
Performance & Pathways Partnership with York RLFC and Penrith Panthers
Newcastle Thunder are excited to announce a dynamic new three-year High
Performance & Pathways Partnership with York RLFC and the NRL’s Penrith Panthers,
designed to accelerate the development of players, coaches, and community
programs throughout the North East.

This pioneering collaboration marks a major step forward for Thunder,
who—following a period of ownership restructuring in 2024—are now focused on
rebuilding from the ground up, with a clear vision to become a League 1 playoff
contender within two seasons and to return to the Championship on a sustainable
financial model.
As part of the partnership, York RLFC will provide additional performance and
coaching support to Newcastle’s existing programs, including the availability of dual-
registered and key loan players where appropriate. This allows Thunder to maintain a
strong on-field focus while continuing to invest in grassroots engagement, school
programs, and long-term commercial stability. Chris Thorman will be joining the York
Knights coaching staff on a full-time basis. His knowledge and leadership will be a
valuable addition to Mark Applegarth’s staff as the Knights continue their push
towards the top of the Betfred Championship table.
A major boost to the initiative is the appointment of Graham Steadman, who will
oversee Newcastle Thunder’s Rugby Department as part of the partnership. Steadman
brings an extraordinary wealth of experience from both codes of rugby—having
starred in Rugby League as a Great Britain international and later coaching at Super
League level, before switching codes and eventually joining Scotland’s coaching
team. Notably, he also served as Head of Defence at the Newcastle Falcons in Rugby
Union, giving him a deep connection to the region and invaluable insight into its
sporting landscape. Graham will be acting as interim Head Coach as a part of his
initial role with the Thunder.
Long term Steadman’s focus will be on developing coaching talent across the North
East, running targeted mentoring sessions and high-quality workshops for local
coaches, while also providing hands-on coaching starting with the current Newcastle
men’s squad.
One of the most exciting outcomes of this partnership is the launch of a Newcastle
Thunder Women’s Program, made possible through shared resources and aligned
values across all 3 clubs. It represents a major milestone in Thunder’s commitment to
growing opportunities for women and girls in rugby league across the North East.
Meanwhile, the long-standing relationship between York RLFC and Penrith
Panthers will now expand to also include direct support for Newcastle Thunder’s
development pathway plans. Senior staff from the Panthers will travel to Newcastle in
the coming weeks to help shape a pathways program that reflects the unique sporting
identity and opportunities in the region.

Keith Christie, Director at Newcastle Thunder, said:
“This is about strengthening what already exists and bringing more opportunity
to rugby league in the North East. York have shown genuine belief in our people
and our potential, and this partnership gives us a platform to grow, both on and

off the field. We’re especially proud to welcome someone of Graham Steadman’s
calibre—he’s a fantastic leader and educator who understands this region.”

Clint Goodchild, Chairman of York RLFC, added:
“Newcastle Thunder has deep roots and a passionate community. Our role is to
help unlock the potential that’s already there. This is a genuine win-win for both
clubs. It allows York to give some of our younger developing players the
opportunity to play week in, week out in a performance environment that mirrors
the high standards we set. That game time is invaluable for their growth, and
we’re proud that it will also contribute to Newcastle’s journey. Graham’s
involvement gives this partnership enormous credibility, and we’re excited to
help build something long-lasting with great people.”

Matthew Cameron, CEO of Penrith Panthers Rugby League, said:
“At Panthers, we are deeply committed to the growth of rugby league at every
level locally, nationally, and internationally. Our relationship with York RLFC has
been built on a shared vision for development, and this new chapter with
Newcastle Thunder represents an exciting extension of that purpose. We see
enormous potential in the North East and are proud to support a strategic,
collaborative approach that prioritises people, pathways, and community. It’s
about strengthening the foundations of the game through meaningful
partnerships, and we’re excited to see this shape a high-performance culture
that will inspire the next generation of players and coaches in the region.”

This partnership comes at a pivotal time for Newcastle, who have endured a difficult
run since the club’s restructure in 2024 and are still chasing their first win since their
2023 season. With renewed focus, community backing, and trusted partners in place,
Thunder are determined to write the next chapter with energy and purpose.
The partnership will also see Newcastle & York collaborate on a series of foundation-
led rugby festivals, school visits, and development clinics, bringing the game to more
people in more places than ever before.