Rhinos Women confirm Lockwood retirement

Leeds Rhinos Women have confirmed that that Beth Lockwood has retired from he playing career after suffering a knee injury.

The prop, who joined the Rhinos in their first season back in 2018, after playing her early rugby with Birstall Victoria.  She played in the club’s first-ever game against Bradford and after a brief spell with York whilst studying in the city for her degree, she returned to her hometown club to play in three Grand Finals.  She played 33 times for the club, scored nine tries and was part of the 2022 Grand Final winning team.

During her time with the Rhinos she has fought back from injuries and back to playing following Crohn’s Disease diagnosis and became a key player and popular member of the team.

Speaking about the announcement, Lockwood said: “Unfortunately, I sustained a knee injury in February that has taken a chunk off the back of my knee cap and after seeing surgeons and specialists they have said if they were to operate it wouldn’t do much for me and it looks like I will have to have a knee replacement, but I can’t get that until I am 30.  This means it will just be a case of me managing it until then so unfortunately I can’t keep playing rugby.

“I will always be proud to have played for Leeds, it’s my home town and it was the club I always wanted to play for. I think looking back at 2018 when I started and how the game has grown and the friends and connections I have made that will last for life, it has been fantastic and I really appreciate that.  The experiences that I’ve had like playing in the Grand Final and winning the Grand Final have definitely been a highlight.  I would like to have continued but I will be backing the girls and I am sure they will do big things in the future and I’ll be looking forward to supporting on the sideline.”

Lois Forsell, Leeds Rhinos Women’s head coach, said: “Beth has been determined and resilient to achieve what she has in her rugby career, she has battled with injuries and illness which shows true testament to her character.

Beth is part of a special group of players who started their journey in 2018 with the Rhinos for the team’s inaugural season. We are sad to see Beth hang up her boots due to injury, but know she will remember her time fondly at the club as will her teammates and coaches.

“We wish Beth well in retirement and know we will see her in the stands supporting her teammates in 2025.”