Following a successful inaugural match in 2015, Newcastle Thunder’s North East Origin is back, bigger and better in 2016, with a one off fixture giving way to a full three match series.

Taking place at Kingston Park Stadium on Friday 11th November 19:30 ko, Sunday 27th November 13:00 ko and Friday 16th December 19:30 ko, a North of Tyne team and South of Tyne team will battle it out for regional bragging rights.

For 2016, Adam Houston will be taking the reins of the South of Tyne squad while Thunder general manager Keith Christie will be in charge of the North of Tyne side.

Eligibility for either side is determined by the location of a player’s first club, with all those based in the North East qualifying.

Training venue for both squads will be at Kingston Park at 19:00-20:30 on the following nights,

2nd Nov
9th Nov
16th Nov
30th Nov

Interest in playing for either side can now be registered with both head coaches.

Bragging rights were shared in the inaugural North East Origin game as the North of Tyne team stubbornly resisted a South of Tyne team in a 26 all draw.

It was a superb advert for the sport in the region, with 321 supporters turning out for the lunchtime kick off, which saw both sides rise above tricky weather conditions to serve up a cracking match.

Entry to all three fixtures will be free to supporters, while a charity collection in support of the Newcastle Rugby Foundation will take place during the events.

For more information on how to play in this year’s Origin series, contact:

Keith Christie - Head Coach North - 07988198902 - keith.christie@newcastle-thunder.co.uk

Adam Houston - Head Coach South - 07990760205 - adamhouston10@hotmail.co.uk