North East Community Rugby League Coaches Karl Stephenson & Rob Jones were invited to HMS Calliope to run a Touch Rugby session last week for the Royal Navy Cadets.

It was organised by Commanding Officer Nelson McMillan who is a regular Touch Rugby player at the RFL's Touch Rugby sessions every Wednesday at Gateshead International Stadium.

The aim of the session was to go through some ball skills and attacking work ready for the Royal Navy's appearance in a Touch Rugby festival against other teams such as the Army and the RAF.

Karl Stephenson said "it was a fantastic session with some brilliant skills being shown, it was clear that there were some rugby players there as well as some new comers, however everybody showed great enthusiasm and things look promising in terms of touch rugby at HMS Calliope.

"It is has been a wonderful experience and I wish the Cadets the best of luck with their Rugby League in the future

Commanding Officer for HMS Calliope Nelson McMillan said "I was delighted to be able to welcome North East Rugby League to a Northumbrian Universities Royal Naval Unit drill night for the first time. 

"I am passionate about my work in the Royal Navy and am always looking for opportunities to promote the Royal Navy in the community.

"I hope that this new relationship established is the beginning of many more ventures with North East Rugby League.

"My gratitude to John Gray, who organised the event, and Karl Stephenson & Rob Jones, who were the inspirational coaches on the night."

If you would like to play Touch Rugby at Gateshead International Stadium please contact John Gray RFL Regional Development Officer tel 0191 4902360 or email john.gray@rfl.uk.com