Washington RFC celebrate win after first game on new £18 million Parklife Project pitch

The is plenty to celebrate for Washington RFC.
Washington RFC (blue) V Sunderland RFC. 16-11-2019. Picture by FRANK REIDWashington RFC (blue) V Sunderland RFC. 16-11-2019. Picture by FRANK REID
Washington RFC (blue) V Sunderland RFC. 16-11-2019. Picture by FRANK REID

Washington Rugby Football Club played their first game at the new Northern Playing Fields development last weekend, earning a 32-5 victory over Sunderland RFC.

The game saw the club testing out the world rugby compliant AGP pitch and was attended by Newcastle Falcons back rower, Connor Collett.

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The new pitch is part of Sunderland City Council’s £18million Parklife project, building three new sport hubs in the city, featuring floodlights, changing rooms and a bar and social club.

Washington's new Northern Playing Field, as part of Sunderland City Council's £18 million Parklife ProjectWashington's new Northern Playing Field, as part of Sunderland City Council's £18 million Parklife Project
Washington's new Northern Playing Field, as part of Sunderland City Council's £18 million Parklife Project

The move is a big step towards the club’s future and the new facilities proved to be world class, according to Club Chairman Oliver Clewes.

He said: “The facilities were fantastic, just what we had hoped for and the fact that we played the game, came off into warm changers with hot showers was just excellent.

“To be able to then go into a social space, have a drink and some food, chat with players and supporters is exactly what we were hoping for. This will hopefully encourage people to come and see what we’re about and get involved.”

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The club is hoping the move will provide a platform for growth and encourage more people to take an interest in rugby, with starting future youth teams being a long term ambition.

Washington RFC playing their first game at the new Northern Playing Fields hubWashington RFC playing their first game at the new Northern Playing Fields hub
Washington RFC playing their first game at the new Northern Playing Fields hub

The side currently offer an introduction into the sport through 02 touch rugby, a non contact version of the game.

The club is now preparing for a trip to Wallsend this coming Saturday before welcoming Seaham back at the new hub on November 30.