13| Jodie Cunningham

Born on the 5th December, Jodie Cunningham is one of the Women’s Super League’s most recognisable stars and a huge advocate for women’s sport and equality in the UK.

Jodie started playing rugby while in school for Cardinal Newman Catholic High School, Warrington. She was then picked to play for England while still in sixth-form, whilst also playing for Warrington Ladies.

She then moved to Leeds for University and again played for England at the 2013 Rugby League World Cup, before joining Thatto Heath Crusaders.

She joined the newly formed St.Helens Women’s side in 2018, however, missed out on the majority of the season due to an ACL injury she picked up in the 2017 season.

Jodie also took up a role as an ambassador at the recent 2022 Rugby League World Cup.

Equally as comfortable at full-back as she is at loose-forward, Jodie was named Women’s Player of the Year in 2019 before picking up the same award in 2021. She was also recognised by being named the 2021 Woman Of Steel as she led Saints to the League Leaders’ Shield, Challenge Cup, and Super League trophies as captain in a historic unbeaten campaign.

Jodie’s rugby league idol is former Melbourne Storm fullback, Billy Slater. Having formerly played as a fullback, Cunningham said she loved watching the Queenslander rip it up in the State of Origin.

Cunningham also said that she loves playing rugby league because of the physicality and getting to push her body to the max!

Jodie Cunningham is the Heritage Number 28 for the St Helens Women.

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