About us - Senior
Introduction 1 of 2

1. About us - Senior


Novocastrians are a well established rugby club affiliated to Northumberland Rugby Union, formed in 1899 and residing at Sutherland Park since 1925 we are one of the oldest clubs in the county.

Novos is a great place to play and watch rugby, we are an open club and welcome rugby players and supporters to join us. The club has worked hard to be welcoming to new members and we always encourage people to come and get involved - whether you want to challenge for a spot in our competitive first team or just want to play a bit of social rugby - you are welcome at our club!

The club's 1st XV compete in Durham and Northumberland Division One at level 7 of the RFU banding system. We are competitive at that level and players in the first team squad are expected to train regularly to hold down a place in the team - Having said that we are understanding and respectful of work and family commitments and look to reward regular attendance rather than give people a hard time if they cant make it. Regular trainers are more likely to be selected in the first team squad.

The 2nd XV form part of the first team squad and have the same expectations with regard to training. They compete in the competitive UBS CANDY League.

Some prefer to be considered only for the social sides and that is okay! The 3rd XV and 4th XV squads are a mix, made up largely from players who do not wish to be considered for first team rugby and those who wish to develop into senior squad members. The expectation of players training is more relaxed but still very much encouraged.

The 3rd XV squad is a mix of experienced ex-first team players and youngsters who are developing toward moving into the senior squad, they compete in the River Aln league having gained promotion in 2015.

The 4th XV are a social squad competing in the River Coquet League, still competitive and always challenge in their respective County Cup.

Novocastrians have a 5th team that play on occasion. Our infamous 7 C's Veterans side look to play in a friendly atmosphere on the pitch and in the bar!

Novocastrians also have a Ladies team, they are the most successful team in the club at the moment, playing in the RFUW Championship which is level 2 and only one league below Premiership! Notable ex-Players are Katy Mclean, Tamara Taylor and Sarah Hunter who are all regular England Internationals. We hope to add some current players into that level of rugby in the not too distant future as well!

Novos is a great place to play your rugby and offers opportunities to all - if your thinking of playing some rugby in Newcastle we would urge you to consider us!