Castleford Tigers Women sign three from local side

Castleford Tigers Women have added three more players to their 2022 squad ahead of their first competitive fixture this Sunday.

Having all spent time at Sandal RUFC, Courtney Evans, Verity Randall and Ellie Sykes each were keen to get involved with rugby league and felt joining Castleford was the best option.

Speaking about her rugby background, Courtney said: “I began playing rugby at 13 through my high school and then moved onto Castleford RUFC until open age at 18. During that time, I was selected for Yorkshire U15s.

“I joined Sandal’s women’s team afterwards and went on to represent Wakefield Trinity at Championship level. Following that, I played at Oulton Raidettes open age and Yorkshire Women’s rugby league team too.”

During her time at Sandal, Courtney was joined by both Verity and Ellie. Verity, a former flanker or fly-half in union, and Ellie a prop have both been encouraged to join the variation of league by their friends.

Verity began by saying: “All my friends were beginning to play league, so I wanted to join them. It was a new skill to learn, and I’ve really enjoyed it – the atmosphere has been great.”

Ellie continued: “I’ve always wanted to play for Castleford with its history and there were plenty of my friends who played here last year.

“I want to try and get myself back into the league routine and build my confidence up.”

As somebody who has played both union and league, Courtney is one of the more experienced players of the squad and has guided some of the relatively new players. Versatile to play wing, centre or full-back, the 22-year-old is eager to make her mark on the Women’s Super League and feels now is the right time.

“It’s a massive achievement and I’m very pleased to get this opportunity to join Castleford. I played for Wakefield Trinity up until they reached the Women’s Super League and that’s when I went to Oulton.

“The coach at the time didn’t feel I was ready for the Super League, but it would be an achievement to prove him wrong.”

The season is fast approaching for the Tigresses and a clearer formation of their team has raised excitement levels within the squad. The Fords have added quality to their ranks this year as Ellie and Courtney explained the attributes that they will bring to this upcoming season.

“I’d say my qualities are putting my body on the line, being aggressive and vocal on the field” Ellie said.

Courtney added: “I’d say I’m the one who keeps people enthusiastic but at the same time keeps prodding to make sure we as a team continue moving forward.”

In closing, Verity spoke of why she chose to join the Tigers and her readiness for it to begin.

“Castleford are a big club and whilst having high expectations may seem daunting it will be a great challenge.”