Keith Christie appointed Honorary President

Newcastle Thunder is delighted to announce that Keith Christie has been appointed Honorary President of the club in recognition of his long and outstanding service to rugby league in the North East.

Keith Christie has been at the heart of Thunder’s off-field life for 16 years. He served as General Manager and then Managing Director of the club during a formative period between 2009 and 2017, playing a leading role in the club’s evolution from Gateshead to Newcastle. Since 2017 he has continued to serve on the club’s board, and in March 2022 he returned to a more active role when he was appointed Chairman to help steady the club and guide its recovery.

Over recent seasons Christie led a group of volunteers and directors who worked to secure the club’s future and satisfy the Rugby Football League’s conditions for re-admission — efforts that proved crucial to Newcastle Thunder’s return to league competition. The Rugby Football League has publicly acknowledged his leadership in that process. 

“Keith’s commitment to this club is unrivalled,” said Newcastle Thunder Chief Executive Richie Metcalfe. “From day-to-day operations to strategic leadership in our toughest moments, Keith has given his time, experience and passion to the people of Thunder. Making him our Honorary President is a small measure of the club’s gratitude for everything he has done.”

Commenting on the appointment, Keith Christie said: “This club means a huge amount to me — I’m proud of what our volunteers, staff and supporters have achieved together. I’m honoured to accept the role of Honorary President and will continue to do everything I can to support Thunder’s future on and off the field.”