Pathway star back for another season with the Rhinos

Leeds Rhinos have confirmed that young goal shooter Amy Braithwaite will return for the 2023 Netball Super League season.

The 20-year-old became the first player from the Rhinos Pathway to ever sign for the club when she was promoted mid-way through last season.  The Derby-born star began last season in the Rhinos Pathway, but was called into an injury-hit squad on the opening day of the season to make her Netball Super League debut against London Pulse. She was later being elevated to the first-team squad and made her second appearance of the season away against Pulse and scored her first Super League goals.

Speaking about re-signing for the Rhinos, Braithwaite said: “It feels amazing to be heading back to Leeds next season.  I think having access to high-level coaches like Liana and Maggie who are both great mentors for me, has helped my progression.  Having one-on-one contact has improved my game and how I play and I am learning what it means to be an elite athlete. 

“It was a huge honour for me last season to be the first player from the Pathway to sign for the club.  I think I will be the first of many.  We have a strong Pathway and are developing a lot of players and the coaches are helping to push players through.  I know the club are super passionate about the Pathway as well so for them to give opportunities to players in that set up is really exciting.”

Leeds Rhinos Director of Netball, Liana Leota said: “We are really pleased to see Amy back for another season.  She has a great attitude and what excites me for her this season is to see how she grows from her first season in the NSL.  It’s also awesome for us to reward our Pathway athletes and to show them that there is an opportunity to stay within the club and get promoted within the NSL team.

“I think what Amy provides for us is that strong presence in the circle.  She’s got a big, beautiful jump and is happy to go to post, long or short.  For Amy this season it is about consistency and getting more game time and I am looking forward to seeing how she comes back for her second season.”