Newcastle Thunder at Women's Nines

Thunder and Northumbria University collaboration at the RFL Women’s Nines

Newcastle Thunder is incredibly proud to celebrate the outstanding performance of our Women’s squad at the 2026 RFL Women's Nines Competition.

As part of our partnership with Northumbria University, the team showcased the growing strength of Women’s Rugby League in the North East.

Under the guidance of Head Coach Adam Houston, the squad’s hard work paid off as they stormed through the group stages to secure a place in the Community Grade Semi-Finals. In a hard-fought battle, the ladies were eventually defeated by a strong Bradford Bulls side, but they left the competition with their heads held high and a reputation as a rising force in the game.

Coach Adam Houston commented:
"I am immensely proud of every single player who took the field. The synergy between Newcastle Thunder and Northumbria University lays the building blocks of a fantastic pathway, and seeing that talent translate into a semi-final run is a testament to the ability of the girls in the pathway."

Newcastle Thunder would like to extend a massive thank you to all the players for their commitment and for representing both Thunder and Northumbria University with such passion.

While the 2026 Nines has come to an end, this experience has laid the foundation for a strong future in the North East Women’s game. Stay tuned for more announcements as we build towards 2027.

For a full rundown of the tournament results, visit the RFL website: 2026 Women's Nines Champions Revealed