Rugby Club Issue 67 | Page 39

Newcastle Falcons As the Aviva Premiership’s Northern outpost, the main purpose of Newcastle Falcons Supporters Club is to help supporters get to away games in style and comfort. With Newcastle being one of Britain’s “Party Cities” we often welcome supporters from all other clubs. Unfortunately for us it often means a bit of a trek to come and visit you, but when we get there you will definitely hear us. We’re a friendly bunch, so come and say “hello” when we visit. Keith Evans has been organising the away travel for a few seasons now. “Many people don’t realise how much of a challenge it can be to get to some games. It simply isn’t practical or affordable to make a long weekend of every trip, so the emphasis is on getting comfortable buses to get there and back in a day, and making it an enjoyable trip. We have fun in a family friendly, picnic style atmosphere. There is often en route entertainment with quizzes and raffles, with Falcons related prizes. An away win will always guarantee a few songs along with Brad’s mobile disco, in fact it happens when we lose too! It really is the best way to travel to games.” As well as travel, the club organises social events during the season. Emma Lane is the person who makes all these good things happen. “We are very lucky to enjoy a good relationship with the rugby club so most of these events involve players and coaching staff to give supporters an insight into what goes on off the pitch as well as on. We also bring in speakers from outside the club. Last season, for example, we were delighted to welcome Ian Tempest to Kingston Park to give a talk on Premiership refereeing and the role that the officials play in making games happen.” In addition to all this the Supporters Club keeps members informed of all sorts of Falcons related news via regular emails, organises free raffles throughout the season for members to win such things as signed shirts and hospitality events. The Supporters Club organises a Player of the Month award, which is voted for by members. This award is presented by one of the supporters who nominated the winning player. It is certainly a busy club with the main aims of making it even more enjoyable to support Newcastle Falcons, and making members feel part of the Falcons family. To get in touch email Membership Secretary Lynne Crowe at [email protected] www.rugbyclub.biz 39