A four-week development programme aimed at identifying the female Rugby League players of the future gets underway next month, with players set to benefit from enhanced development and playing opportunities.

More than 140 girls aged under 15 and under 16 will take part in training sessions in Castleford, Halifax and St Helens, where the focus will be on developing a range of core skills. In common with last year’s programme, the sessions will be planned and delivered by volunteer staff, all of whom have a strong presence in Women’s and Girl’s Rugby League.

These regional hubs of activity are the first step on the performance pathway, and will help young players develop into future Women’s Super League and England stars.

The next step in the female performance pathway, post under 16, is the Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE) programme run by the RFL’s Performance Department. The national programme welcomes Years 12 and 13 girls who have the potential to reach the top level of the women’s game in England. 30 places are available every academic year for a new group of Year 12 students who study full time at school or college.

‼️ One week to go… 👀

🎟️ Tickets are now on sale for the 2023 @Betfred Championship Summer Bash at @YorkRLFC – secure yours now!

— Rugby Football League (@TheRFL) May 20, 2023

DiSE is a ‘dual career’ performance programme which combines education and elite rugby development. Players receive high-level training delivered on a camp basis by the England Performance Unit. The rugby sessions are designed and overseen by the RFL’s Stuart Barrow, England Women Head Coach, who closely monitors players development throughout their journey.