Lindsey Anfield leaves York Valkyrie

York Valkyrie Director of Rugby, Lindsay Anfield is leaving the club, after four years in charge.

She initially joined York in 2021 following her time as head coach at Castleford, and immediately led the team to that year’s Betfred Challenge Cup Final where they lost to St.Helens.

Silverware followed with the 2022 and 2023 Betfred Women’s Super League League Leaders’ Shield, and two memorable Grand Final wins in 2023 and 2024 when the Valkyrie became the first team to win back to back titles.

She was also named as BWSL Women’s Coach of the Year in 2023.

On leaving the club, Anfield said: “After five years, I feel privileged to have been part of so many players’ lives and development, and contributed to the growth of the Valkyrie.

"I wanted the players to feel valued and have positive experiences on and off the field. If I’ve achieved that, it’s all been thanks to the support of the staff I’ve worked with and the buy-in from the girls.

"I’ve loved seeing so many girls taking up rugby league in York and following in the footsteps of the Valkyrie players who are outstanding role models for the game in the city… and my daughter!

"Over the past five seasons, I’ve worked to grow the female section of the club to what is now a thriving Pathway 2 Performance, Under 19s and first-team women. I hope I have the club in a better place than when I started.

"I’m proud to have given something back to the sport, and I wish the players and staff all the very best as they continue their rugby journeys.”

York RLFC Chairman, Clint Goodchild said: “Lindsay has played an enormous role in shaping what the York Valkyrie have become.

“Her impact goes far beyond wins and trophies — she’s helped build a culture of professionalism, belief and pride that has transformed women’s rugby league in York and across the country.

“Under her leadership, the Valkyrie have gone from strength to strength, establishing themselves as one of the most respected and successful teams in the game.

“On behalf of everyone at York RLFC, I want to thank Lindsay for everything she’s contributed — as a coach, a leader, and a pioneer. We wish her every success in the next chapter of her journey.”