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This Saturday saw the annual National Masters Festival at its spiritual home of Blackpool’s Stanley Park. Crusaders Masters players turned out in great numbers to support our neighbours, North East Thunder. Butch on the break! Plenty of our numbers arrived on Friday evening and met up for a few relaxing quaffettes in Ma Kelly’s Showboat. Everyone had a good giggle and probably ended up a bit too relaxed! A full English and a brisk sea front stroll sorted us out the next morning though! The Festival saw us drawn against Warrington outfit Golborne Parkside and Bradford outfit West Bowling. In the first game, against Golborne, we got off to a great start. Having received the kick off the team clawed its way to the half way line where, on the 5th, Jase put a kick in to the corner. Our defense held tight and gave us a great starting point for our next set. The team tried its best to get a try in that next set but were held out. However, a fumble from Golborne deep in their own half saw Thunder capitalise, moving ball away from the ruck with great runs from Ben, Butch and Alex. Within a couple of plays there was enough room for twinkle toes Don too turn the hips of a couple of Black shorters and crash over, having collected them on route to the line. The game remained open and flowing for both sides and was played in fantastic spirit. Thunders defense held firm until around the 20 minute mark. When, after a fumble from Thunder, Golborne got over the whitewash after a brilliant passing move. After 25 mins of brilliant Masters Rugby League the Match Official blew the whistle and it really was honours even. Thunder had the privilege of a break before taking on West Bowling. Time for a bit rehydration to help us counteract the relaxation fluid from the night before. Again Thunder listened to those pulling strings and every player was keen to get their hands on the ball whether it was just a hit up or pulling off switches, miss moves or wedges. As with the first game, the game was pretty much even throughout and there was some great banter between the teams. Thunder kept ticking away and remaind calm and resolute in defence. The breakthrough came at around 15 mins when Big Foot intercepted a flowing passing moving from West Bowling near Thunders line. There was our no stopping our not so mythical humanoid creature who went the full length to score the only try of the game. The game continued in the same spirit as it started with both teams turning on the style with the ball but were being kept out by dogged defences. After 25 mins the Match Official called time and Thunder were very satisfied with their days performances. After the games, everyone retired to the marquee at the cricket club for food and the awards. It was fantastic that our Hungarian Sasquatch picked up the Masters Moment Award for his great try! Thank you North East Thunder for the invite to guest. Well done the 10 Crusaders who made the trip. Awesome. Next up is our final game of the year, at home, to our new, but great friends, Doncaster Toll Bar. 27 September at Robertson Rd, https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNdq7h6d9/

On Saturday, 10 of our refined gentlemen that make up some of the Masters team, will guest with our good friends from North East Thunder Masters. The event in question is the National Masters Festival which takes place in Blackpools Stanley Park. Crusaders Masters numbers this season have been better than ever in only our 3rd full season. Taking away 10 gents to guest is a great achievement especially when 9 of those are staying over, and bringing their better halves. At the time of writing our pre-advance party of Butch is already deployed. The advance party of Ben, Clarkie, Jay, Don, and Goadie have staggered deployments throughout Friday. Leaving Darren, Ian and Gaz as a small but high quality main body! Crusaders Masters are assigned to Pitch 4 and will have a game against Parkside Goldbourne at 1pm and then West Bowling at 2pm. It should be 2 great games. In Masters spirit the marquee at the, next door, cricket will be open from 3:30with the days awards given out at 5:15pm. The start point for an evenings shenanigans!! Please keep an eye on our Socials, for photos. https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNdqMXNGH/

On Saturday 16th August, a small contingent of Catterick Crusaders Masters (Darren & Ian) and North East Thunder Masters (Alex & Barry Mc), travelled north of the border to support Edinburgh Cannons Masters in their first ever game, marking a historic moment for Scottish Rugby League. The quartette arrived at Royal High School in Edinburgh and newly appointed Scotland Masters Head Coach, Ian, dropped into his natural coach role and ensured all were prepared, including 2 lads who had never played any rugby for what would be a tough game against Arlecdon Rams Masters. The game was a cracking advertisement for Masters and was played in great spirit. Arlecdon started the brighter as Cannons got to know each other. “Oooo look, a worm!” Defensively, Cannons worked really well for each other. Alex put in some hard tackles on the strong black and white shorters for Arlecdon, while Barry and his yellow shorts stopped a variety of attacks around the edges. As Cannons grew in confidence, we became more fluid in attack with some really good plays largely started by Ian who was pulling the strings well at 6 as well as some great pep talks at breaks. Although his kicking wasn't up to much, it must have been the heat. Last but not least was Darren’s contribution to the game both in attack and defence, he had a strong game that had him in contention for MoM. The final score was an honourable 0-0 draw as always in Masters. New players and seasoned vets with smiles on their faces. A great day out finished off by our chauffer for the day providing ice creams for the drive home.

Today it was time for Scotland Rugby League to unveil their new Masters Head Coach. Crusaders are extremely proud to see that it’s one of our very own, last years U16’s coach and regular Masters player, Ian McKechnie. Ian cut his Rugby League coaching teeth with our junior set up having coached various age groups. We are unsure whether he’s smiling or had wind! As well as coaching our junior’s Ian joined our Masters side for its first game in 2022, narrowly missing out on a Master of Steel Award in 2023 (awarded for playing every game in a season). Ian joins his son Alasdair in representing Scotland. Al’ recently turned out for the U18’s against the Newcastle Thunder LDP side, having come up from the Bravehearts U16’s who he represented the year before. Rumours were quickly quashed that Ian would be getting a round in to celebrate, reminding everyone that “l’m a true Scotsman!” We look forward to seeing him avoid the bar and complaining about not having Stovies for post match food, at our next home game! On a serious note, it’s great news Ian, well done mate, slainte!

On Sunday, Crusaders were widely represented at U16’s and U18’s, with players representing the very successful Thunder Lions - Lions Development Program. Game 1 was an U16’s game made up of players from Gateshead Storm, Wallsend Centurions and Yarm Wolves. Representing Crusaders was man in the middle, Darren Cunnington. On the playing front Crusaders were first represented in Game 2, which was a great tussle at U18’s. Crusaders juniors. Elijiah Delaidriti, Owen-Tyler Cole, Jack Buttitta, Jake Lerigo and Oliver Rhodes lined up for the Thunder Lions whilst Alisdair McKechnie and Seth Clapham lined up for Scotland. Again, Crusaders were represented in the middle by Masters player, Paul Clarke. Thunder Lions U18’s A fast paced, big impact game thrilled the large crowd, with some superb rugby league on display. Game 3 was a much later kick off and followed the League 1 match between Newcastle Thunder and Dewsbury Rams. The game saw U16’s players come together from Crusaders, Cramlington Rockets and Consett Eagles. The Thunder Lions took a while to settle but once they started to focus on getting the small things right, things really came together for them. Isaiah Delaidriti ran the game very well from scrum half and asked telling questions of the defence whenever he went to the line. Zach Stanley, gracefully made a start from the bench and went on as an outside back, however with only backs as replacements he found himself with a big change in position later on. Zach thrived on being plonked in the middles with some barn storming runs and excellent defence. Also standing out in the middles was Riley Manuel who played some of his best Rugby League of the season. With a lack of a recognised dummy half, Toby George Clarke often got himself at the breakdown and was a handful from the scoot. Both Mackenzie Clarke and Leighton Smith stamped reliability statements all over their game. Ensuring they did all the small parts of the game well to maximise possession and effectiveness in defence. At U16’s and U18’s the Crusaders showed great work rates, great sportsmanship and high levels of Coachability. Taking advice and time on the bench, so others got game time, with good grace. Well done the players and Match Officials representing the club. Finally, not to be outdone Crusaders Masters supported the game from afar by agreeing to sponsor the post match pizzas for all the teams.

On Saturday Crusaders Masters travelled down to new mates Doncaster Toll Bar for what turned to be a great game of Masters Rugby League. This season a small band of Crusaders have started an away day breakfast club. Setting off good and early to take sustenance at an obliging eatery, before taking on the rest of the journey. Don’t panic! Alcohol Free beer! Yellow shorter Gaz, pulled some family strings and got us booked into, the usually none breakfast obliging, Black Bull in Wetherby. Top scranage! Many thanks to the staff at The Black Bull for making us welcome and going out of their way to get our day off to a good start. Double yolker Crusaders arrived to a buzzing Toll Bar club, with a junior festival taking place for various age groups. There was various stalls, including Rugby Discounts who were doing a roaring trade with their NRL stash. Clearly we had to part take, because it’s all about the stash! The game itself was excellent. Crusaders were off to a slow start which allowed Toll Bar over the white wash to maintain a healthy nil all draw. RUN FOREST(TER), RUN!! Crusaders eventually clicked a started to make in roads into the Toll Bar defence. Crusaders started to match Toll Bar with good use our Tag players like Goadie and guests like Barry and Andy. Combining this with crunching runs for Kev, Smudge and Matty and we were well on course to maintain 0-0. The game continued in great Masters spirit, with both teams exchanging tries and displaying great skill. Crusaders would like to thank our new mates at Doncaster Toll Bar for a great day out and a cracking game of Rugby League. We look forward to hosting you in September. Thank you to Jayne for patching us up and verbally clipping our lugs when required. Crusaders Masters would also like to thank the following. Shirt sponsors, Marstons. Polo sponsors, Burties Hair Design, Top Third, iSecure Group, ECreative Designs and Lighthouse Risk Management. Off field sponsors, The Hildyard Arms, Thirsty Work, 4 Aces, JDN First Aid, AA First and Richie McGrath Per-Training and Breaking.

Rugby league’s spirit of camaraderie and competition was on full display this past Saturday as the Catterick Crusaders Masters hosted the Barrow Masters in a spirited clash, with support from a few Doncaster lads and Crusaders’ own JT and Lee helping balance the numbers to an even 11-a-side. Despite the travel miles for Barrow, both squads turned up in great spirits, embracing the spirt of Masters Rugby League. The match kicked off in true masters fashion — with smiles, handshakes, and mutual respect — as Catterick received the ball to get things underway. What followed was a display of entertaining rugby from both sides, marked by intelligent play, strong carries, and creative attacking shape. The teams traded multiple tries, using sharp offloads and strategic ball movement to pierce defensive lines and exploit space. However, Catterick struggled to maintain structure in the latter stages of the game. The absence of club stalwart Jason was felt, particularly when organising the side in crucial field position inside their own 20-metre line. His on-field leadership was sorely missed. The match also saw the return of a familiar face, with former Crusader Dan making his Masters debut. A strong and physical presence, Dan showed glimpses of his old form, laying down a solid foundation that suggests he’ll become a key figure for Catterick once again as he gets more game time under his belt. A special mention must go to referee Matt, who made the trip up to officiate. His consistent handling of both sides’ frequent infringements and his commitment to letting the game flow allowed players to enjoy a fair and competitive contest. His efforts were appreciated by all and he would be welcomed back to officiate future fixtures. While the game officially ended in a 0-0 draw — in line with Masters Rugby’s non-competitive scoring ethos — the real victory was in the spirit of the game. Both sides walked away winners, having embodied everything that makes Masters Rugby League a joy to be part of. Masters rugby is not just about results — it’s about memories, mates, and moments — and Saturday’s fixture delivered all three in abundance. Match Report courtesy of Ben Smith

On Saturday our U7’s, U8’s and U10’s had an action-packed rugby session that combined skill-building with family fun! The day kicked off (for the U10’s) with focused training, where players worked hard on their defensive line structure and line speed, sharpening their awareness and teamwork. A highlight of the session was a fast-paced game called “Climb the Ladder”, which challenged players to react quickly and communicate effectively. After the drills, we shifted gears into a family fun session, and incorporated our U7’s and U8’s, that brought everyone together. The much-anticipated Dads vs. Children Tag Rugby match was full of laughter, friendly competition, and some surprisingly agile moves from the grown-ups! We also played a creative twist on a classic with Rugby Rounders, blending rugby skills with rounders rules for a unique and energetic game. To top it all off, we ended the day with a water fight – the perfect way to cool down and celebrate a fantastic session. Thank you to everyone who joined in and made it such a memorable day. We can’t wait for the next one!

The Catterick Crusaders U12s showcased their passion, teamwork, and rugby league spirit at their home festival this past weekend, hosting an exciting morning of junior Rugby League action that brought together teams from across the region. Held at Wavell Rd, the U12s Festival welcomed young athletes, coaches, and supporters for a morning packed with energy, sportsmanship, and development. With a focus on participation and enjoyment over competition. The festival celebrated the growing talent and enthusiasm in grassroots rugby league. The Catterick Crusaders U12s played with heart and determination throughout their matches. Their impressive ball-handling skills, tackling effort, and teamwork were on full display as they went head-to-head with other spirited clubs from the area. Head Coach Baz praised the team’s performance: “The kids have worked hard in training, and it showed on the pitch. It’s not just about the score, today was about playing with confidence, supporting each other, and having fun. I’m proud of every single player.” The festival atmosphere was enhanced by the fantastic support from parents, volunteers, and the local community. As the day came to a close, every player left the field with a smile, a sense of pride, and a reminder of why rugby league continues to thrive at the grassroots level. The Catterick Crusaders U12s now look forward to building on this momentum as they continue their season, developing both their skills and love for the game.

On Sunday, a couple of our Masters players played in the inaugural match of MND Masters. A fantastic concept, to raise money for MND through the spirit of Masters Rugby League. Jase was eagerly awaiting the game only to be reminded he had a mandatory RFL Tutors meeting on, on the same day, DOH!! So that left Ben and Darren to represent Crusaders Masters. The game took place at New Earswick All Blacks RLFC in York, against a combined York Masters and Prostate RL team. The theme for the day was set well in advance, the objectives were clear. Have a great amount of fun on the pitch, raise a great amount of money off it. The game itself was a great contest between the two teams. As usual the game was played in fantastic Masters spirit. Both teams gave just as good as they got in an end to end affair. Well done Ben and Darren for getting out on the park and representing yourselves and Crusaders Masters. Crusaders next play as a team, at home, on Saturday, against Barrow Masters.

Match Report: Catterick Crusaders U14 vs Consett Eagles U14 Final Score: Crusaders 26 – 0 Eagles Venue: Robertson Road Catterick Crusaders U14s continued their strong run of form with a composed and clinical 26–0 victory over Consett Eagles at Robertson Road. The first half was a tight and physical battle, with both sides looking to gain the upper hand. Consett came out firing, putting the Crusaders under early pressure, but the home side’s defensive line stood firm. Strong tackles, excellent communication, and committed goal-line defence kept the Eagles out. Catterick responded with their own attacking sets and managed to break through Consett’s defence once, taking a narrow lead into the break. The second half saw a shift in momentum as Crusaders introduced fresh legs, and the impact was immediate. From the restart, Catterick played with greater tempo and structure, stringing together cold, calculated sets that began to pull Consett apart. The Crusaders dominated the territory battle, forcing errors and capitalising on field position. Utilising the width of the field and identifying overlaps, Catterick punished the visitors out wide with a flurry of second-half tries. Their discipline and ball control were key, as they kept their composure and applied sustained pressure. Every player stuck to their role, and the team’s ability to execute their game plan sealed a well-deserved shutout. A strong all-round performance with plenty of positives to build on – Crusaders continue to develop into a disciplined, well-drilled unit.

A formidable trio from the Catterick Crusaders Masters — Adam, Ben, and Gareth — made their mark at the Yorkshire Masters Rugby Festival hosted by Doncaster Toll Bar ARLFC this weekend. Their contribution across multiple teams showcased not only their talent but also the true spirit of Masters rugby. The day kicked off with the Catterick trio pulling on jerseys for the Blackpool Scorpions in their opening fixture against the hosts, Doncaster Toll Bar. From the first whistle, Adam, Ben, and Gareth made an immediate impact with powerful runs, aggressive defence, and cohesive teamwork. Their presence was felt in both attack and defence, giving Blackpool an edge in the contest. In the second fixture of the day, the Catterick lads split across teams to take on Beverley Braves Masters. Ben remained with Blackpool Scorpions, while Adam and Gareth switched over to bolster Beverley’s lineup. The match was a balanced affair, full of passion, physicality, and sportsmanship — hallmarks of Masters rugby. The contributions from all players, including the Crusaders contingent, made it a highlight of the festival. Next up was a tough test against Eastmoor Dragons, where Adam and Gareth pulled on a third different jersey of the day. Despite the fatigue beginning to set in, the duo remained undeterred, playing with commitment and composure. The game was hard-fought, but filled with positive rugby and mutual support between teammates and opponents alike. For the final fixture, Ben and Adam laced up for a fourth outing, this time representing the Hull Masters in a rematch against Doncaster Toll Bar. Noting from their earlier clash, the Catterick pair anticipated a physical encounter — and it delivered. Doncaster came out strong with aggressive carries, but Adam responded with unmatched defensive effort, registering the highest tackle count of the game and setting the tone for a determined Hull defence. A special mention must go to Ronnie Braithwaite, former Wigan player now playing for the Blackpool Scorpions. A true standout of the day, Braithwaite dazzled spectators with blistering pace and impeccable lines, scoring multiple tries — including several from within his own half — and earning the unofficial title of the fastest gold short in the West. The festival concluded on a high note for Blackpool Scorpions, who were awarded Masters Team of the Festival in recognition of their spirited play and sportsmanship — not just encouraging their own but also uplifting their opposition. Ben capped off a stellar afternoon by being named Master of the Day for his all-around performance — commanding in defence, relentless in carries, and an ever-present influence across the pitch. The Catterick Crusaders can hold their heads high after a day of outstanding rugby, team spirit, and shared camaraderie — embodying everything the Masters game stands