YORK VALKYRIE have signed hooker Kate Howard from Leigh Leopards on a deal for the remainder of the season.
Howard, 27, has been one of Leigh’s standout stars over the past three-and-a-half years as they climbed from the Championship to Super League, scoring 18 tries in 40 appearances.
She was Leigh’s top scorer last season – their first in the top flight – with seven tries and was leading the way again this year with five, including one in her final game for the club, last Saturday’s 20-18 home win over Barrow Raiders.
“I’m really determined to work hard and see where the rest of the season takes me,” said Howard.
The signing adds depth to York’s hooking department, having begun the season with Izzy Bobby as first choice and former Woman of Steel-winning nine Sinead Peach instead starting matches at loose-forward.
Valkyrie have only won two of their opening five league games under new head coach Leon Pryce.
Defeats to the big guns St Helens, Leeds Rhinos and Wigan Warriors mean they must win their next two, at Featherstone Rovers on Saturday then Barrow two weeks later, to ensure a top-four place as the league splits.
Howard could make her debut against Featherstone.