Newcastle Thunder continue with Graham Steadman as Head Coach

Newcastle Thunder is thrilled to announce that Graham Steadman will continue as Head Coach of Newcastle Thunder, as the club embarks on an ambitious journey toward the newly formed 2026 Betfred Championship season and beyond.

With a distinguished playing career, international experience and a deep understanding of rugby league, Steadman brings a calibre of leadership befitting this new era of Thunder rugby.

Steadman’s credentials speak volumes. During his time with the Castleford Tigers from 1989 to 1997, he amassed 237 appearances, scored 121 tries, kicked 174 goals and slotted in 8 field-goals, totalling 840 points for the club. He also earned 10 caps for Great Britain national rugby league team, and represented Yorkshire on four occasions.

During his Castleford years, he featured in major finals including the 1991-92 Yorkshire Cup Final (where he scored two tries and four goals) and the memorable 1993-94 Regal Trophy Final, a 33-2 victory over Wigan Warriors.

Steadman continues at Newcastle Thunder with the mission to elevate performance, embed a winning culture and nurture the region’s talent base. His appointment is the next strategic move following the earlier announcements of Richie Metcalfe as CEO and Steven Watkinson as General Manager, aligning the club’s leadership team for bold progress.

Graham Steadman said: "I’m absolutely delighted, privileged and honoured to be given this opportunity. I’m really excited about the future of Thunder and what we can build based on the strong foundations laid by the young men of Thunder — without them, we wouldn’t be in this position. These boys kept the club in the competition, and I’m looking forward to a great pre-season and our Performance Pathways Partnership with York RLFC. We’re determined to make sure Thunder is visible and active in and around the city of Newcastle."

Club CEO, Richie Metcalfe said: “We are delighted to welcome back Graham Steadman as Head Coach. His track record as a player, his leadership qualities and his deep understanding of rugby league are exactly what the club needs as we embark on this next phase. With Graham at the helm, and our new senior management structure in place, we are more committed than ever to realising our ambition of becoming a force in the North East and in the Betfred Championship.”

This announcement is part of a continuing series of strategic updates from Newcastle Thunder as the club builds toward the newly formed 2026 Betfred Championship season. Supporters, partners and community stakeholders are invited to join us on this journey.