Although born into the club in the early 70’s Ryans volunteering for the club didn’t officially start until the late 1990’s when he became 1st XV vice-Captain and then Captain for almost 10 years. As his playing activity decreased he became a member of the club committee in 2000 and after a short period as Vice Chairman he became Chairman and held the position until when he formally stood down for family reasons, but continued to assist the club and still does today as an active volunteer to the committee in all things construction related.

Ryans Story:

After hanging up my boots, I’ve always wanted to coach a kid’s team and prayed that I had a son or daughter who wanted to play, thankfully I have!

When I look back at my experiences of youth rugby, I had some great fun and made friends and a lot of this was down to a dedicated coach who gave his time freely for the benefit of myself and my teammates.

I’d like to think I had rugby’s core values instilled in me at a very young age from my father and uncles and wider rugby family at Wallsend and I take great enjoyment in putting something back.

It can be challenging particularly when busy with work but once you have your boots on and are out in the fresh air with the kids it all seems worth it. Coaching the fine young men of Wallsend U13’s has become one of the most rewarding things I've ever done

Over the years I've had the privilege of watching these young players grow, not just as rugby players, but as people. I've seen shy children become confident young leaders. I've seen friendships formed that will last a lifetime. I've seen players overcome challenges, learn resilience, and develop the values that rugby teaches so well... teamwork, respect, discipline and hard work. Every child has their own superpower, it’s the coaches job to discover and develop it.

The journey from mini rugby to junior rugby has been incredible to be part of. Every season brings new challenges, new successes and plenty of memorable moments. There are exciting match days, hard-fought victories, lessons learned in defeat, and countless laughs along the way. Seeing a player finally master a skill they've been working on for weeks or watching a team come together to achieve something they didn't think possible makes every hour of volunteering worthwhile.

For me personally, coaching is also a way of giving something back.

Wallsend RFC gave me so much growing up. The club gave me opportunities, friendships, life lessons and memories that I still carry with me today. Coaching allows me to help provide those same experiences for the next generation.

What makes Wallsend RFC special is that it has always been more than just a rugby club. It's a community. It's a place where people look after each other, where lifelong friendships are formed and where everyone is welcome.

That's why I'd encourage anyone with a connection to the club to consider getting involved.

You don't need to be an experienced coach. You don't need to know every law of the game. You simply need enthusiasm, a willingness to help and a desire to support young people in our community.

Whether it's helping at training, assisting on match days, supporting behind the scenes or taking your first steps into coaching, there is a role for everyone. The club will support you every step of the way, provide guidance, training and mentoring, and help you build the confidence to make a real difference.

The next generation of Wallsend RFC players are already here. They just need people willing to help guide them on their journey.

If Wallsend RFC has ever meant something to you, why not give something back?

Come along, get involved and give coaching a try. You might just find, like I did, that it's one of the most rewarding things you'll ever do. Speak to any Wallsend RFC. Memeber who will point you in the right direction or simply message us on any social media platform.

- Ryan Thirlaway