Leeds Women to play at Headingley as club announce plan

Leeds have announced their Women’s team will play their home fixtures at Headingley as part of a three-year plan to grow the team.

They had previously played home matches at Sports Park in Weetwood. Part of the change will also see the team share the Kirkstall training base with the Men’s team.

Some of the women’s matches have also been earmarked as double-headers in 2022 with the Men’s fixtures. This will allow greater exposure.

The club have also brought in Professor Ben Jones from Leeds Beckett University to take charge of the strength and conditioning programme. Rhinos Team Manager Jason Davidson has also taken a supporting role.

Leeds will be hoping to return to the winner’s circle in 2022. They won the League and cup double in 2019, and reached the Grand Final in 2021. But they lost to St Helens, who completed the treble.

Leeds committed to growing team

Speaking to the club website, Women’s Head Coach Lois Forsell said: “We are really keen to develop and grow the game. This is something that will take time. But we are committed to doing all this whilst competing at the top in the Women’s Super League.

“2021 was a difficult year for all clubs and as we prepare for 2022. We are already seeing some positive changes. We all can’t wait to get back training in pre-season ahead of the Challenge Cup kicking off in March.

“Through my work with Leeds Rhinos Foundation, we will also continue our support for the women’s and girl’s game at grassroots level. We hope we can create more opportunities for girls to play, with interest in the game greater than ever before.

“It was fantastic to see 4,500 fans attend the Grand Final at Headingley in October. We know the women’s game is going to continue to grow. We are pleased the club are showing this commitment to the Women’s team and the Academy.”

Read More: Women’s Challenge Cup schedule confirmed