Following their relegation from the Premiership on Saturday, Newcastle Falcons issued a statement urging their fans to stand by the team.
A 28-19 loss to Gloucester at Kingsholm confirmed the Falcons would be playing Championship rugby next season, as Leicester survive.
With one game remaining in their season, Newcastle’s record reads six wins from 21 games, with the club acting fast with this statement.
“Newcastle Falcons are disappointed to confirm that we will play in the RFU Championship next season following the most competitive Premiership in recent memory,” it read.
“Despite dropping down a level we are fully committed to securing promotion back to the top flight at the first attempt under the direction of Dean Richards. While we are confident of a return to the Premiership within a year, it is something we certainly do not take for granted and will approach the competition very seriously.
“We remain fully committed to our playing and coaching staff as well as continued investment in our academy, which continues to produce a steady stream of talented local players.
“Crowds have been growing over the last few seasons, and we will be working hard to continue to provide a fantastic match-day experience and deliver great value to our customers.”
Thank you to our incredible travelling supporters for your backing today. Outstanding, as always. We are so grateful to have you on our side.
— Newcastle Falcons (@FalconsRugby) May 4, 2019
The statement continued: “Once the RFU have confirmed the Championship season structure for 2019-20 the club will contact season ticket holders to confirm details regarding next season, and any associated changes to our pricing. These details will then be relayed to our wider supporter base.
“Our stadium development plans will continue, which will help our award-winning events team to drive further excellence in hosting major conferences and exhibitions.
“The Newcastle Rugby Foundation will continue to expand and make a positive difference to the lives of over 15,000 people each season across an ever-increasing breadth and depth of programming which will tackle some of the biggest issues facing our communities in the North East and Cumbria. These include unemployment, opportunities for under-represented groups and tackling mental health.
“We would like to thank all of our loyal supporters for their fantastic backing throughout the season, and we hope to welcome you all to Kingston Park next season.
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“This can only be achieved through the continued drive and hard work of everyone at the club with the support of our outstanding supporters and sponsors.
“Newcastle Falcons have been instrumental in growing the game at every level, whether this be mini and youth rugby, women’s and girl’s rugby, volunteers, adult and county rugby, spectators, disability participation, facilities, business and attracting major events.
“Our long-term vision to achieve further growth across all areas and become one of the leading brands in the sport remains firmly intact.”