Team Northumbria M1 Rugby Union captain Oli Robinson admitted he was left in a state of awe and excitement after finding out that he would have the opportunity to lead out his side at St James’s Park against Newcastle University on Saturday March 24 as part of ‘The Big One’.
On a weekend where no football will be played by Newcastle, Sunderland or Middlesbrough, ‘The Big One’ is an event that aims to promote rugby to the entire region.
And it will see TN take on Newcastle University as the undercard to the Aviva Premiership tie between Newcastle Falcons and Northampton Saints.
Having only found out moments before the announcement, Robinson admitted that he was looking forward to derby day and playing on the hallowed turf of St James’s.
“It’s a match we’re massively looking forward to,” said a buoyant Robinson
“I didn’t think we’d get a varsity game this year so I’m looking forward to it.
“It’s a one-off game. It’s about pride and who’s the best university rugby side in the North East so I’m massively excited.
“Student-wise, St James’s is so central which is great because it means we can try and get more people down.
“It’s the biggest stadium in the North East.
“It gives me goosebumps just standing here knowing I’m going to be playing here in a few months’ time.
“My family is from Newcastle - my brother and my dad are both Geordies so they’re both extremely jealous.
“To be part of this, and to be captain, fills me with massive pride.”
And Robinson’s words were echoed by a proud Northumbria University Director of Sport Colin Stromsoy.
“It’s a reflection of just how far we’ve come in sport at this university over the last few years,” said Stromsoy.
“The fact that I’m stood here with our Rugby team top of the BUCS Super Rugby league, as the best team in the country, and having the opportunity to play at St James’ Park in March next year as a curtain raiser to a Falcons game is just incredible.
“I’m so delighted for the players because they’ve worked so hard. And I’m delighted for Darren Fearn and his coaching staff.
“We’ve been working very hard with the Falcons, who have done an absolutely unbelievable job. The football club, too.
“We were determined to give the players this opportunity to be fully involved.
“So as soon as this became an opportunity, I made it very clear to the Falcons that we would do absolutely everything we could to make it happen. We’d move heaven and earth to ensure our players could play this game.
“We’ve put our heart and soul into this and in terms of support. And we will continue to do so from here on in to make it the best occasion we can make it.”
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