St Helens Women have bolstered their squad ahead of Sunday's Betfred Women's Super League opener with the capture of the highly rated Rachael Woosey from Rugby Union side Loughborough Lightning.
Woosey, 23, who can play on the wing, in the centre or at full back joins the Club from Loughborough Lightning, featuring a number of internationals including England Red Roses captain Sarah Hunter.
Growing up in St Helens, Woosey has played Union since the age of six and emerged through the West Park club’s junior development programme.
In 2016 she played six times for England U20’s, adding to her appearance for England U18 Sevens against Ukraine in 2015.
She also earned a place in the England Sevens National Talent Development Group and then moved to Darlington Mowden Park Sharks in the Women’s Premiership. Rachael marked her World Sevens Series debut with a try in the Challenge Trophy Final against Brazil in Sydney in February 2017.
In January 2018 she was named in England’s 6 Nations squad, but now returns home as she switches alliances to Rugby League and joins the Saints ahead of the 2021 season.
On signing for Saints, Rachael said: “I am looking forward to playing my first season in rugby league. Being born and bred in St Helens, signing for the Red Vee was a no brainer for me. I am also studying for my PGCE so this move works perfect for me. It has been nice to get in and learn the new rules and I can’t wait to get going.”
Head Coach Derek Hardman said: “It’s great to finally get Rachael on board. She was due to play for us last season, but with the pandemic that was not possible. It is a huge capture not just for us as a Club, but for the Women’s game and we are looking forward to seeing her in a Saints shirt this season.”
Woosey will hope to make her debut in Saints Women’s Betfred Women’s Super League opener with Bradford Bulls on Sunday at Victoria Park (kick off 3pm).
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