Butcher named Women’s Players’ Player of the Year

Women’s Super League champions Leeds Rhinos Women celebrated their successful 2022 season with an end of season presentation night for players and staff.

Rhinos co-captain, Hanna Butcher, who had an outstanding season for the club and appeared in all but one fixture, was recognised by her team mates with the prestigious Players’ Player of the Year award.  Butcher, who has been with the Rhinos since their formation, made the switch to centre this year where she excelled and her consistent form helped her team through to the Challenge Cup Final and then on to win Grand Final honours once again.  Georgia Roche, who made her Rhinos debut in 2022 came second in the vote and Caitlin Beevers third.

Fran Goldthorp collected the award for Young Player of the Year after another impressive season , which saw her score 13 tries in 15 appearances and earn a place in England’s World Cup squad.  The fans also voted her memorable try against St Helens that helped secure a dramatic win at the Totally Wicked Stadium as the try of the season.

Caitlin Beevers was voted the Fans’ Player of the Season after another incredible year and she also got the nod from her coaches who named her as their Player of the Year.  Beevers, was the team’s joint top try scorer, with two of her tries coming in the winning Grand Final that earned her the Player of the Match award.

Speaking about their contribution, Women’s head coach Lois Forsell said: “I would like to thank Dave and Ant for everything they have done for our team over the last five years.  As a player working with them I always valued their advice and insight and then when I made the move into coaching they were a huge support in that transition and have been the best right hand men for the last two years.  They have been an integral part of our squad and will be missed by myself and all the team.”