York RLFC, Newcastle Thunder & Penrith Panthers launch High Performance & Pathways Partnership
- sharonshortle
- 1 minute ago
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York RLFC, Newcastle Thunder and NRL's Penrith Panthers have come together to launch a dynamic new three-year High Performance & Pathways Partnership 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 programmes, 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 moving to Rugby Union 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 also 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 Programme, made possible through shared resources and aligned values across all three 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 programme 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 and 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.
