Thunder confirm Armed Forces Day Fixture

Newcastle Thunder is incredibly proud to announce its 2026 Armed Forces Day event, set to take place on Saturday, 27th June 2026 at Blaydon RUFC.

Promising to be one of the standout fixtures of the Betfred Championship season, the event will combine two Rugby League clashes with an interactive Armed Forces Village to celebrate, honour, and support the region's Armed Forces and emergency services.

A Festival of Rugby League

The afternoon will be anchored by a blockbuster double-header. The Royal Navy Rugby League team will take to the main pitch for a curtain-raiser match against Scotland 'A', coached by the North East's own Adam Houston (Kick-off 1300).

This sets the stage for the main event at 16:00, as Thunder take on Cumbrian rivals Whitehaven RLFC in a crucial Betfred Championship clash.
Beyond the action on the pitch, Crow Trees Ground will be transformed into an interactive military and emergency services hub. Fans can expect:

The Armed Forces Village: A recruitment and engagement zone featuring the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, British Army, Royal Air Force, Royal Marines, Tyne & Wear Fire Brigade and Northumbria Police, with interactive military assets, assault course, hang tough challenge, RAF ejector sear, and display vehicles.

Live Entertainment: The Band of the Royal Fusiliers will play live music to build the atmosphere, alongside a pitch side DJ in the fan zone. Fans can also expect pitch side bars, street food and games for the children.

Pre-Match Protocol: A Royal British Legion guard of honour will welcome players to the field and a minute's applause will be held before the main event to pay tribute to our servicemen and women.

Playing for a Cause

To mark the occasion, Newcastle Thunder will take to the field in a limited-edition Armed Forces Day warm-up shirt. The exclusive jersey is being produced in direct support of the Royal British Legion (RBL), who will be in attendance on the day. Fans will have the opportunity to pre-order the shirt, with a proportion of the proceeds going toward the RBL's vital work supporting veterans and their families. The shirt is inspired by the artwork of local veteran artist Shelly Hamilton Smith. 

Newcastle Thunder CEO Richie Metcalfe, commented:

"We are acutely aware that Armed Forces Day is a busy time for our services, and we are incredibly honored that they have chosen to support Newcastle Thunder to help grow Rugby League in the North East. This day is about showcasing our deep appreciation for the Armed Forces, providing a prime engagement opportunity for the local Armed Forces units and Blue Light services, whilst also exposing new fans to our great sport. We are telling our fans to expect a massive atmosphere and a truly special day at Blaydon."

Ticketing and Hospitality

Parking at Blaydon RUFC (NE16 3BN) is free for all supporters on a first-come, first-served basis. Regular bus services (49/x45) run directly from Newcastle Central and Gateshead Interchange to the ground.

General admission tickets are on sale now via the Newcastle Thunder ticketing portal here, serving Armed Forces personnel will receive free entry with veterans and blue light services receiving discounted entry on production of valid identification. Corporate hospitality packages are also available to book; more info to follow. 

For more information, hospitality inquiries, or to secure your limited-edition RBL warm-up shirt, visit www.thunderrugby.co.uk and fill out the contact form.