Cramlington Rockets’ U16s (Y11) are invited to join training this evening (Wednesday 29th August) at 7pm to sample the environment of the club’s open age set up.

This transition session will help those wishing to play open age rugby in 2019 get a feel for the set up and meet the existing players.

Lead by familiar face and Head Coach, Danny Gilroy, the current open age set up offers an welcoming and youthful environment.

With an average age of 21 years old, 75% of the current playing squad are ex-juniors, meaning many first team regulars went through the same transition in recent years.

“It is important we welcome the next generation to show them the pathway and opportunities ahead of them” said Gilroy.

“I started off as a junior with the club and I am now thirty years old. The club has given me so many opportunities and it is important for players this age to keep involved.

We know it’s a busy time in life, starting A-Levels and then thinking about university and we are supportive of all of that.

What we are seeing now is players who left for university coming back into the side after returning home to Newcastle, and using that experience to bring the side on.”

Speaking about the team’s recent success, he added: “Our Grand Final appearance in 2017 was a highlight for us all, and we were disappointed at not at least replicating it this season, but we still finished third this year.

I have big plans and high hopes for the team next year. The more everyone buys in to that, the better it will be.”

The transition session is open to any players in Year 11. However, those who have joined the U19s Newcastle Thunder Academy should note they are unlikely to be able to play much in 2019 season due to fixture clashes.

If you have any questions, contact your coach or the club via social media.