Youngsters re-sign with Newcastle

Newcastle Thunder have announced the re-signings of Dan Coates and Sam Blake for the 2020 League 1 season.

Coates, 21, is an academy graduate at Newcastle and has been a part of their talent pathways since under 15s.

He made five appearances in 2019.

“Last season was a good year for me breaking into the first team,” he said.

“I enjoyed the games I played, and it gave me a taste of what’s to come and made me want it more, now knowing what it is like to play in the side.

“Pre-season has been great, I’ve had a good start and I am getting more confident as we go along.  I’m looking forward to being part of this team.”

Blake joined Newcastle in 2018 and made five appearances in that same year.

He missed a large part of the 2019 season due to an operation, and failed to make an appearance.

“I‘m looking forward to a new season with Thunder after my time here back in ‘18. It was a new challenge to me, moving to the city and playing in League 1 but one that I enjoyed,” he said.

“I missed almost a year playing after needing a shoulder operation, but I’ve got back to playing with the University and got the call from Simon about coming back to Thunder.

“The facilities here are top class and it’s a club with massive potential.  All the boys get along well and have been welcoming and I think from what I’ve seen in training we’re capable of having a good year.

“Pre-season is progressing nicely and hopefully I can get some game time in the friendlies coming up next month.”