Newcastle Eagles inducted two of its most legendary names into its Hall of Fame at the club’s 30th anniversary dinner on Thursday, September 3.

Former player-coach Fabulous Flournoy and recently retired star Darius Defoe received the club’s highest honour to standing ovations from over 300 guests in attendance at the celebration.

Both players also joined fellow inductee TJ Walker in having their jersey numbers retired, ensuring their impact on the club is forever etched into its history.


Fab Flournoy became the third Eagles star to be inducted into its Hall of Fame. (Photos: Gary Forster)

In the first Hall of Fame inductions since Lynard Stewart’s in 2015, banners bearing all four names and numbers were unveiled, taking pride of place on the Vertu Arena’s Ken Nottage East Stand.

Conducting the inductions, Dan Black, Newcastle Eagles Sales and Communications Manager, said: “Inducting players into the Hall of Fame and retiring their number is an honour reserved for those whose contributions to the club have been truly extraordinary.

Following his retirement this year, Darius Defoe was inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame in honour of his 22 years playing for the club. (Photos: Gary Forster)

“It is a symbol that what they achieved will never be forgotten, and that no one else will wear that number because it represents something unique in the club’s story.


“The inductees’ numbers belong among the greatest in Newcastle Eagles history, permanently retired and forever remembered.”

Over 300 guests in attendance at the club’s 30 Year Anniversary Pearl Party gave both Flournoy – who sent a video message from the USA – and Defoe standing ovations on their inductions to the Hall of Fame and on the honorary retirement of their jersey numbers. (Photos: Gary Forster)

To commemorate its anniversary season, the club is committed to inducting more stars from across its 30-year history into the Hall of Fame going forward.