ST HELENS centre Amy Hardcastle will continue to help the future development of the game, and the next generation of players, after taking a new off-field role at Bradford Bulls.
Her appointment as women’s development manager sees Hardcastle return to the club with whom she won the 2017 treble.
After leaving Odsal as a player, the 36-year-old joined St Helens, playing two seasons there before a move to Leeds Rhinos.
Hardcastle returned to St Helens last season, and will continue to play there in 2026, alongside her new day job with the second-tier Bulls.
“I’m incredibly excited to be starting my new role at the Bradford Bulls,” said Hardcastle, who will hope to add to her 26 England caps during this autumn’s World Cup in Australia.
“With my years of experience, passion, and determination, I’m committed to playing my part in helping to grow, support, and strengthen the women’s programme.
“I’m really looking forward to working alongside Rebecca (Ball-Knight, women’s head of rugby) and Noah (Gascoigne, head coach) to develop a strong culture, a professional environment, and continued growth within the team.
“With the club’s vision, values, support, and investment, I’m excited to see what this season holds for the women.
“With a busy year ahead for myself, it’s great to have the club fully behind me and supporting me every step of this journey. I’m looking forward to this new challenge and meeting the team, roll on this season.”
For the Bulls, this appointment signals a major step in seeing the women’s team follow in the men’s footsteps by making a return to the elite competition in the game.
“We are delighted to welcome Amy on board,” said chief executive Jason Hirst.
“For me, there’s no bigger name in UK Women’s Rugby League, than Amy. Her record speaks for itself and given that she was an integral part of our all-conquering, unbeaten, treble-winning side of 2017, it’s fitting that she’s chosen to return to our club.
“I can think of no one better to inspire and develop the next generation of young female talent in Bradford.
“By doing so, she will support us in our aim of achieving a Super League return for our women’s team.”