HUDDERSFIELD GIANTS have bolstered their injury-hit squad by signing York Valkyrie forward Charlotte McDaid on a season-long loan.

The 19-year-old captained the Valkyrie Under 19 squad before moving into the first team last season and making her debut in the starting line-up for a 26-0 win at Leigh in June.

She went on to make a further three appearances from the bench, but has only featured once so far this year, coming off the bench in the Challenge Cup group game against Barrow.

“It’s great that Charlotte has agreed a season-long loan with us,” said Giants head coach Nathan Graham, who is currently without the injured Bethan Oates, Hannah Watt, Fran Copley, Leah Schofield, Becky Grady and Emily Buttery.

“Mirroring the men’s team, injuries have hit pretty badly in the first part of the season and we have been looking round to bolster our squad.

“Charlotte’s a quality player who has come through the U19s at York to their first-team squad, so when we heard she was available it was a no brainer really. 

“She’s a great athlete and very tough. I know all the girls have made her feel welcome straight away. I’m looking forward to working with her and seeing her produce some strong performances for us.”

McDaid may debut against St Helens on Sunday and knows that a change of scene could do wonders for her career in the game.

“After being at York since I was an Under 14, it has been a hard decision to make,” said McDaid.

“However it is what was needed for me to improve my game and develop within the sport. 

“I look forward to the challenges Huddersfield have to offer me and being a part of the journey they are on.”