Young Player of the Year 2024 Bella Sykes is ready for WSL 2025

Bella Sykes is walking into a new season with high hopes

Bella Sykes joined the Leeds Rhinos Women in June 2023, instantly enhancing their squad's capabilities. Her contributions were pivotal during the team's impressive streak of four consecutive wins at the end of the season, which included a crucial golden point victory in the Super League semi-final against St Helens. Sykes also played a role in the Grand Final, coming off the bench during the team's defeat to York Valkyrie.

In 2024, Sykes became a consistent starter, taking on positions as both a prop and loose forward. Her outstanding performances garnered attention from the Women's Super League, leading to her recognition as the league's Young Player of the Year. Over the course of the season, she participated in 13 out of 15 league matches under head coach Forsell, as well as in four Cup rounds, including the Cup Final against St Helens, during which she scored four tries.

Moreover, Sykes made her senior debut for England in 2024, contributing off the bench in victories against France and Wales.

Ahead of the new campaign Bella sat down with our own Greg Nixon to discuss her journey so far and her ambitions this time round.

Bella will be joining us soon for a full length 'In Conversation'