The idea behind the partnership is to accelerate the development of players, coaches and community programmes within the North East of England.
For their part in the programme, York RLFC will provide additional support with coaching and performances to Newcastle’s existing programmes, which includes the dual-registration and loan deals which the two clubs have agreed in the past.
This is to aid Newcastle in their attempts to rebuild, after a period of ownership restructuring in 2024, with the target being that Thunder will become a League One play-off contender within the next two seasons – with the eventual goal being a return to the Betfred Championship.
Therefore York’s involvement will help Newcastle in their attempts to realise those goals, whilst also continuing to invest in grassroots engagement, school programmes and long-term commercial stability – which will help raise the profile of rugby league within the North East.
This has seen some huge staff changes for both York and Newcastle, even affecting York RUFC.
Chris Thorman has been confirmed to be joining the Knights coaching staff on a full-time basis.
Thorman, who represented England as a player on two occasions, started his career with Sheffield Eagles, where he made 19 appearances.
The 44-year-old would go on to have spells with Huddersfield Giants, London Broncos, Parramatta Eels, Hull FC and then York.
Graham Steadman, another former Knight, has also been appointed to oversee Newcastle’s Rugby Department, as a part of the partnership between the two clubs.
Steadman has been Head Coach of York RUFC since June 2024, but has a great wealth of experience in both codes of rugby.
He starred as a Great Britain international but also coached at Betfred Super League level, before making the switch to rugby union, and joined the Scotland National Team.
Steadman also served as Head of Defence at Newcastle Falcons in rugby union, and he will act as interim Head Coach with Thunder.
In the long-term, Steadman will focus on developing coaching talent across the North East, whilst running targeted mentoring sessions and workshops for local coaches.
Also for Newcastle, it has been confirmed that they will launch a Newcastle Thunder Women’s Programme – which has been made possible through the shared resources of the three clubs.
Meanwhile, the long-standing relationship between York RLFC and Penrith Panthers will also expand, which will include support for Newcastle’s development pathway plans.
Clint Goodchild, Chairman of York RLFC, commented: “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.”
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.”
Matthew Cameron, CEO of Penrith Panthers Rugby League, added: “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.”
