Gateshead Thunder has joined the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) Me2 campaign which is a project aimed at revolutionising access to activities at all levels for deaf children.

Gateshead Thunder is committed to working with the deaf community, and offering the opportunity to play rugby league to everyone.

This commitment is demonstrated by signing the Me2 pledge, which calls on all youth and leisure organisations across the country to break down the barriers that many young deaf people face in accessing leisure activities.

Chris Hood, Gateshead Thunder Director of Rugby commented:"At Gateshead Thunder, we are continually striving to ensure that our club and the game of Rugby League is inclusive, and that we provide support to any individuals to extend the enjoyment and values of the sport."

"The Me2 campaign is a real, practical programme and being part of it shows our desire to ensure those who are deaf or hard of hearing have the same opportunities as everyone else."

The pledge was signed by the club last year but the acceptance by the NDCS has fallen in conjunction with Lee Curry's first day as Thunder's new Community Rugby League Assistant.  

Lee will be working alongside East Durham Community Rugby League Coach Rob Jones across the area.  Lee is profoundly deaf and understands what barriers young people face when trying to access sport and leisure provision.

Lee said:"It is great news that we have signed up to the NDCS Me2 pledge, and hopefully the work that I will be doing will be increasing the provision of Rugby League in the North East to people who are deaf or hard of hearing."

"As part of my role, I will be creating opportunities in schools and clubs, as well as looking to set up networks between deaf schools to play, coach and volunteer in Rugby League."

Rob said:"It is great news that Thunder have signed up to the Me2 pledge and it is something that I know all of the Rugby League organisations in the North East are looking into.""Regarding Lee, he is a really enthusiastic and outgoing person with so much life experience and a passion for sport."

"Everyone in East Durham is looking forward to him starting, and we have already got several schools in the area who are already asking for his coaching."