Rugby League

Rugby League at Northumbria is headed up by Jason Payne and is one of our most successful teams in recent years. The club itself have held the National Championship title for the last five years and will be looking to repeat this again this coming season!

Rugby League currently compete in the highest possible leagues in BUCS over three teams and are constantly looking for new players to join the ranks. The club are hardworking, ambitious and constantly looking to improve as a squad and as individual players. The club has very close links with Newcastle Thunder and Gateshead Storm.

The club has a large social aspect and an emphasis on fun during training sessions, allowing newcomers to not only learn the rules of the game but also easily integrate with current squad members and settle in with ease. Moreover, the relative size of the club allows a heightened level of inclusivity between its members, as all of the squad are able to train together leading to a feeling of family amongst all involved.

As well as weekly fixtures for both squads, they also compete in a Rugby League 9’s competitions hosted by BUCS throughout the year.

Rugby League had an outstanding season in 2023/24, with the Men's 1st and 2nd teams completing their respective BUCS triple, winning league, cup and 9s events. In addition, the Women's 1st team won their Winter League in their inaugural season. The Club were awarded the Club of the Year award in the annual Northumbria Sport Awards. In addition, Head Coach Jason Payne was also shortlisted for Coach of the Year and Club President Ben Morris was shortlisted for Committee Member of the Year.

Please note the 2024/25 season has now concluded. Information on membership prices and training times for 2025/26 season will appear here in due course.

Students enquiring about joining the club in 2025/26 season can contact the Club Committee via email or instagram. 2025/26 memberships will only be available to purchase following Big Week of Sport in September. Speak to the club at Sports Fair on 24th September for more information or email them as below.

Men's 1st team:  

Perform memberships are determined by the Head Coach of each sport through Focus Sport Scholarship applications prior to the seaons starting. (See "Student Athletes" tab for more information). 

Key Contacts

Head Coach: Jason Payne  

Club Presidents: Harry Lowery (M) & Grace Ellis (W)

The Rugby League club is supported by Northumbria Sport Clubs Officer Jade Featherstone