Newcastle Falcons star proves he is no dummy

Aug 29 2008 by Kim Carmichael, The Journal

NEWCASTLE Falcons’ latest signing has shown off his tough tackling skills – on a mannequin in a department store.

Adam Balding is set to take part in an attention-grabbing internet viral campaign created by creative communications agency, Cravens, to launch the first game of the new season against Sale.

A local take on cult YouTube film ‘Office Linebacker’ starring NFL player Terry Tate, the viral, which goes live on Saturday, shows Balding bursting into a tackle after seeing a mannequin holding a sale sign in Fenwick of Newcastle. Working in collaboration with the store, the campaign is also supported by an online and print campaign.

Gill Stephenson, Newcastle Falcons marketing manager, said: “Producing a viral to promote a game is a first for an English rugby club.

“It has already generated significant interest in what is a major event for the club.”