York RLFC chairman, Clint Goodchild, has confirmed that York RLFC Valkyrie will join Leeds Rhinos in paying its female players from season 2023.
Speaking to the York Press in an exclusive two-part interview, the rugby league club chairman said plans were in place for over six months to pay the Valkyrie players.
The support from the RFL and after speaking with Leeds Rhinos CEO Gary Hetherington solidified the chairman's decision to pay the players in the next season.
Goodchild continued:
"It's great recognition for the girls and this is just the first step.
"There's going to be on-going increases, looking at how quickly the NRLW has taken off.
“The majority of the players in our squad are under the age of 24. Our hope is that every girl in our squad can play out their careers subject to their bodies not subject to their wallets.
“They don’t have to retire due to income, they can reach their potential as players as long as they can sustain their fitness.”
After the success of the Rugby League World Cup, director of rugby, Lindsay Anfield, added:
"Our women performed well on the international stage and that of course brings interest.
“The likes of Hollie Dodd and Tara, I’d be surprised if they’re not being pursued by NRLW clubs right now.
“If they find that opportunity, we’ll support them, really support them, helping them get there and find accommodation. That’s the right thing to do for those players.”
The Valkyrie open their season with the Challenge Cup on Sunday 23rd April. Tickets will be available nearer the time.
#RiseUp | #WeAreYork⚔️
“It’s great recognition for the girls and this is just the first step. There’s going to be on-going increases, looking at how quickly the NRLW has taken off“It’s great recognition for the girls and this is just the first step. There’s going to be on-going increases, looking at how quickly the NRLW has taken off
