Competing in the brand-new Fellside Sauna North East & Cumbria League and representing the club in the National Cup for the first time in a number of years, this squad has set the tone early: unbeaten in all competitions so far.

Leading the way in the new North East & Cumbria league

The introduction of the new league has brought fresh energy and strong opposition — and the Panthers have risen to the challenge brilliantly.

In the league, the girls have led the way in Pool A of the Fellside Sauna NE & Cumbria competition, showing consistency, composure and a real togetherness that’s been building week by week.

League table: https://tinyurl.com/a34m2jv2

A National Cup run to be proud of

The Panthers’ success hasn’t been limited to league action. Their National Cup journey has been a huge highlight — not least because it marks the club’s return to the competition after several years away.

During October, the team came through a tough double challenge, overcoming Northern and Houghton in hard-fought fixtures to secure a place in the last 16. Last weekend, they earned the right to face WBR in the next round — a fantastic achievement and a real marker of how far this group has come.

National Cup details: https://tinyurl.com/svjrradk

Photos from Houghton Cup Match

Growth, inclusion, and the right kind of culture

Of course, winning is never the only measure of success — and what’s been most impressive about this season is the environment the girls have created.

The squad has welcomed six new players, with five making their rugby debuts during September and October. That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when training is enjoyable, inclusive and player-centred — and when every player feels supported to learn, contribute and grow.

Just as importantly, the Panthers are helping shape the spirit of the girls’ game locally. After every fixture, the team makes a point of celebrating girls’ rugby with their opposition in the clubhouse — a simple tradition that says a lot about the values this group represents.

Recognition at player development level

Individual progress has matched the team’s results too, with 10 players selected for the PDG — a brilliant reflection of the talent, work-rate and potential within the squad.

That momentum has continued: 10 Panthers players represented the County PDG yesterday against Cumbria, underlining just how much quality is coming through this group.

Panthers section: progress across the age groups

The season continues to progress well across the Panthers section. Like everyone, the squads are currently feeling the frustration of limited training time since the weather turned, but the energy and development hasn’t stopped.

The U12s and U14s are continuing to improve week by week, and both squads have welcomed two or three new players — another positive sign for the growth of girls’ rugby at Tynedale.

Taking the Panthers story to Instagram

With support from the club, the team has also launched the Tynedale Panthers Instagram account, primarily featuring the U16s.

It’s already becoming a great way to share training, matchday moments and team activities — and, crucially, to celebrate the growth of the girls’ game with peers locally and more widely.

Follow here: https://www.instagram.com/tynedalepanthers/

Official recognition: Northumberland RFU Team of the Month

As announced last week, the U16s’ achievements have now been recognised beyond the club too: Tynedale Panthers Girls U16s have been awarded Northumberland RFU’s Team of the Month.

It’s an unexpected honour — but a thoroughly deserved one — and a brilliant reflection of what this squad has built so far this season: strong performances, real togetherness, and a culture that welcomes new players and celebrates the game.

A season to celebrate — and a movement that’s growing

Girls’ rugby in Northumberland is on the up, and Tynedale Panthers are proud to play their part.

This set of players has been outstanding so far — particularly through a demanding October — combining results with a genuine love of the game. They’re building something that goes beyond the scoreboard: a team culture that develops players, brings new girls into rugby, and represents the club with real pride.