Amy Hardcastle has opened up on the reasons for switching St Helens for Leeds Rhinos after the biggest transfer in Women's Super League history was confirmed. The England international, one of the most prolific performers in the women's game, has linked up with the defending champions having tormented them for many a year.
The acquisition is a statement of intent from Lois Forsell's side, who broke Saints' dominance last year by winning the Grand Final. Hardcastle had been a key performer in the Saints side that won the treble in 2021 and leaves Saints having scored 51 tries in 28 appearances.
Now, Hardcastle is a Rhino. Commenting on her move, Hardcastle admitted the lure of being to her home in Halifax had played a key role in her decision to switch clubs.
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She said: "After the World Cup, I started looking at my options and thinking about what I wanted to do and considered did I want to stay in the game, did I want to progress and I had to think about what would benefit myself and my family.
"Being closer to home was a factor for me and I still want to play at the best level that I possibly can, with a quality side as well. Leeds were at the top of the options and I approached Lois and I asked her what her thoughts were and it went from there.
“It’s a great club and what they are doing for the Women’s team is exciting and seeing where the club is going. I have spoken to a lot of the girls when I have been in England training and they all have positive things to say about Leeds, so I am so grateful that I have been given this opportunity to play for another club and make some more memories and learn as well as making it easier for my family.
“I enjoyed my time at St Helens, it’s a great club and I can’t thank the staff and fans enough for how they helped with my journey and welcomed me in and I leave with many happy memories.”
Forsell, who told Leeds Live last week the club is waiting to learn whether some of their players will head to the NRLW, added: “Amy is a quality player with plenty of experience playing at the highest level. She is the only player to have won the treble twice, which is a remarkable achievement, and we know she has ambitions to win more. She is an athletic player who will be a great addition to our squad and I am looking forward to working with her again.”
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