NEWCASTLE THUNDER head coach Chris Thorman says he always anticipated coaching his hometown club as he prepares for another season at the helm.
Thorman took the reins at Thunder ahead of the 2023 season, but had to endure a difficult period in 2024, with the club struggling to survive.
However, the Geordie native is keen to take Newcastle forward, despite their 0-54 home defeat by Batley Bulldogs in the second round of the Challenge Cup.
Thorman said: “I’m born and bred here in Newcastle and I’ve had an interesting Rugby League journey.
“I kind of always knew I would be back to coach my hometown club at some point, but I didn’t quite think it would be now.
“But you find yourself in circumstances and you adapt and evolve.
“It’s not what I originally signed up for three years ago, but I guess the good thing about last year was we started from day one again and I could put my own stamp on things.
“We have a bunch of people at the club now who know what needs to be done to be successful.
“It’s been challenging and interesting, but it’s certainly going to be worthwhile.”