Th NIB Newcastle Knights have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Greater Northern Region further bolstering the Knights extensive pathways program.
The agreement strengthens the relationship between the Knights and local clubs, schools and leagues across the Group 21, Group 4 and Group 19 regions.
Furthermore, the Club will establish regional academies in the area to deliver consistent coaching, education and development opportunities.
Male and female players from the Greater Northern Region will have a clear and aspirational pathway to become future Knights with Knights-branded support and dedicated staffing to ensure ongoing connection with the region.
Knights Director of Football Peter Parr signed off on the MOU highlighting the importance of the region within the Knights pathways system.
“We are delighted to enter into this agreement with the Greater Northern, a region that is a major part of the Knights footprint and an area that features prominently in our strategic direction,” Parr said.
“We look forward to working with all involved in ensuring this a long-lasting affiliation and thank everyone who played a part in putting this partnership together.”
A key part of the Knights’ historical and future footprint, the area has produced former Knights players in Steve Simpson and Jarrod Mullen to current day Knights including Brock Greacen and Jules Kirkpatrick.
The MOU formalises a more structured development pathway for talented players to progress from local leagues into the Knights’ system.
There is a specialised and dedicated team at the Newcastle Knights who will be pouring their energy into the development of our regions coaches and emerging talent across male and female pathways.James Cooper
Football Director from the Greater Northern Region James Cooper welcomed the agreement.
“The Northern Region are thrilled to formalise a multi-year partnership with the Newcastle Knights,” Cooper said.
“We’ve been impressed by the professionalism and commitment of Simon Healey (Knights General Manager of Pathways) and his team throughout this negotiation process.
“There is a specialised and dedicated team at the Newcastle Knights who will be pouring their energy into the development of our regions coaches and emerging talent across male and female pathways.
“We are grateful for this opportunity and look forward to realising the many benefits it will bring over the coming years.”
Media Release: Newcastle Knights
