Michael Mitchell, who joined the club in 2005 as an ten-year-old has been with the club ever since, from its time as Killingworth Rockets, when it moved to Cramlington in 2009 and ever since an open age set up was added to the roster of teams at the club.

Now aged 21, Mitchell has the task of leading a youthful 1st team squad who are in the hunt for success in this year’s North East Premier Division.

Appointed by Head Coaches, Evan Simons and Vincent Rennie, Mitchell will be joined by Tom Callighan as Vice Captain for the season, having also being with the club for many years and bringing a wealth of experience.

Coach, Vincent Rennie was delighted with the leadership set up for the season: 'I'm really excited to have Michael Mitchell as our team captain and Tom Callighan our vice.

“For the short time I have been at the club, Mitchell has display a degree of commitment and dedication far beyond what I was expecting before arriving here.”

“Not only is he a great competitor on the field but him being with the club for 10 years just shows young players that if they work hard they will be able to put their best foot forward and step into a leadership role like Mitchell's.”

“He is a valuable asset to our team and having the experience and calm level head of Callighan is a great mix for the Rockets and their future.”

Mitchell added: “This means the world to me. I love this club and have been a part of it for a long time now and it has grown as much as I have.

“To be given the captaincy is an honour and I will be looking to ensure we are a success as a team both on and off the pitch.

Callighan said: “I am very pleased to be given the vice-captain role but also for Mitchell.”

“I coached him as a junior, up into the adult set up and it is really rewarding to see him take up a leadership role within the team.”

Mitchell celebrated his appointment with a fantastic seven tries in the Rockets’ opening match of the season, as they beat Durham Tigers 88-0.