Home-town boy sticks with Gateshead

James Gordon

Home-town boy Chris Parker has signed a new two year contract with Gateshead.

Parker, who arrived at the club in 2006, had previously played for local amateur sides Gateshead Storm and Newcastle Knights, after spending five years in the British Army.

Parker said: “I am really pleased to be staying at Gateshead Thunder and I am delighted that the club wanted me to stay for another 2 years. I want to be part of a successful Gateshead Thunder and I am proud of my local club.

“As well as playing for the first team, I do try and give a little back to the junior development as I have benefitted massively from the input from local coaches for which I am really grateful. I am doing some work with Kevin Neighbour and Stephen Rutherford who are heading up the Under 18s. Hopefully this extension will show local players that if they work hard they can make a career in rugby league in the North East.”

Thunder Chief Executive, Rod Findlay, said: “We’re really pleased that Chris wanted to stay with us. He is really popular in the camp and with the fans and I think it is important that we retain our local talent. Chris has earned his contract extension with his hard work this season and in previous seasons.

Gateshead Thunder celebrates its 10 year anniversary and Chris is one of about a third to half of the first team squad who are locally trained. Thunder will continue working with the RFL North East and local partners to help produce further players and to take the sport to a large audience in a massive geographic area. Chris is a good example to hold out.”

Gateshead have already signed up Andrew Henderson, Dylan Nash, Nick Youngquest, Kris Kahler, Paul Franze, Russ Aitken, Rhys Clarke, Ryan McBride and Michael Knowles for next season.