Rhinos appoint new Women’s Talent ID coordinator

Leeds Rhinos are delighted to announce the appointment of Warren Broadley as their new Women’s Talent ID coordinator.

This is a brand new role that highlights the growth of Women’s Rugby League and the success of Leeds Rhinos Women’s Academy set up.

Broadley, who is a former army soldier, currently coaches the Women’s Scholarship and Academy on a voluntary basis. His new role will involve him being responsible for finding the next crop of junior players to bring through the Leeds system, which has already produced England player Keara Bennett. Last year’s Woman of Steel nominee Lucy Murray and more recently Ebony Stead, Ruby Enright, Grave Short, Ruby Bruce and Ruby Walker. 

Speaking on the appointment, he said: “It’s an incredible honour to be appointed as the first-ever Leeds Rhinos Women’s Talent ID co-ordinator. Leeds Rhinos has a proud history of developing and attracting top-level talent, and I’m excited to play a key role in identifying players who can strengthen our squad at all levels, from the youth pathway through to the senior team.” 

New registration rules by the RFL means that instead of a squad of 30 players, the squad must now contain 25 players + 5 ‘new players’, driving the need for development through each clubs’ Academy pathway. 

The role Broadley is taking on will be key to helping the Rhinos find new players who will not only help fill said registration requirements but will provide good squad depth to the side as they develop into first team quality players. 

Broadley added: “I’m bringing a strong passion for player development, an in-depth knowledge of the game, and an extensive network within Women’s Rugby League. My role will be to ensure we identify and recruit the best talent, whether that’s emerging young players, experienced players from other clubs, or athletes with the potential to transition into Rugby League from other backgrounds.

“It’s an exciting time for Women’s Rugby League, and I’m looking forward to working alongside the coaching staff and wider Rhinos team to strengthen our pathway, enhance our recruitment strategy, and help shape the future of Leeds Rhinos Women.”

Broadley has coached the Army Women’s Rugby League side, and has coached current Rhinos Women’s players Bethan Dainton, Kaiya Glynn, Jenna Greening and Ella Donnelly at that level. He will use his vast knowledge and expertise as he utilises his contacts from university and Armed Forces Rugby League.