It’s been a whirlwind of achievement and anticipation for rugby league fans as the Huddersfield Giants’ women’s team celebrated their remarkable season while former Wigan Warriors stars earned their shot on the international stage with Ireland. With the Women’s Super League campaign drawing to a close and Ireland’s national squad gearing up for a pair of crucial Tests, the rugby league community has plenty to cheer about—and even more to look forward to.
On October 13, 2025, the Giants Women gathered at Laund Hill for their annual Awards Night, a festive occasion that not only honored individual excellence but also the collective progress made throughout the season. It’s been a year marked by hard-fought victories, dazzling tries, and a sense of unity that’s propelled the team to new heights in the Women’s Super League.
Lori Halloran, alongside the ever-supportive Huddersfield Giants Supporters Association (HGSA), presided over the evening’s proceedings, handing out a host of awards that recognized the grit, determination, and sportsmanship displayed by players across the squad. And let’s not forget—the club made sure to express heartfelt gratitude to the HGSA, whose backing has been instrumental in making game days and team successes possible.
Among the standout honorees was Gracie Hobbs, who took home the Sportsmanship Award of the Year. Sponsored by Addleshaw Goddard Lawyers and G & G, Hobbs’ commitment to fair play and respect on the pitch set the standard for her teammates all season long. “Gracie’s attitude and leadership have been a beacon for the squad,” said a club representative, capturing the sentiment shared by many in attendance.
Becky Grady’s tireless work didn’t go unnoticed either. Named Most Improved Player of the Year, Grady’s transformation over the season was nothing short of remarkable. With support from Hickory’s Smokehouse, her sponsor, Grady’s rise is a testament to what dedication and a bit of self-belief can achieve in a competitive league.
The engine room of any rugby league side is its forward pack, and this year, Bethan Oates emerged as the Best Forward of the Year. Sponsored by both Hickory’s Smokehouse and Posynergi, Oates’ relentless drive and power carried the Giants through many tough encounters. Her contributions were so impactful that she also shared the HGSA Player of the Year award with Madison Hutchison—a rare honor that speaks volumes about her influence on and off the field.
In the backs, Amelia Brown was the name on everyone’s lips. Not only did she clinch the Best Back of the Year accolade, sponsored by Bower Green and Hickory’s Smokehouse, but her peers also voted her Players’ Player of the Year, with sponsorship from Jaime Manning. Brown’s flair, vision, and try-scoring prowess have made her a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposition defenses. “Amelia’s consistency and ability to change a game in an instant are what set her apart,” remarked a teammate during the ceremony.
The prestigious Woman of Steel award went to Lois Naidole, whose resilience and leadership have been a cornerstone for the Giants. Sponsored by the Huddersfield Giants Community Trust and Masters Luxury Launderette & Dry Cleaners, Naidole’s influence extends beyond the pitch, inspiring younger players and embodying the spirit of the club.
As the Giants Women toasted their achievements, the broader rugby league world turned its eyes to the international arena. On October 14, 2025, Ireland announced its squad for two upcoming Tests—one at The Gnoll in Neath on October 25 and another at Featherstone Rovers’ ground on November 1. The squad list featured a trio of former Wigan Warriors: Harry Rushton, Dec O’Donnell, and George King, each bringing their own unique journey and experience to the Wolfhounds’ setup.
Harry Rushton, now 23 and plying his trade with Huddersfield Giants, has traversed a fascinating path. After breaking through at Wigan and a stint with Canberra Raiders in the NRL, Rushton has spent the last three seasons anchoring the Giants’ forward pack. His selection for Ireland is a nod to his growth and adaptability across different leagues and continents.
Dec O’Donnell’s story is one of perseverance. Though he never cracked the first team at Wigan, the hooker has built a solid career with spells at Workington Town, Oldham, and currently Rochdale Hornets. His call-up reflects not just his recent form but also the depth of talent emerging from the Warriors’ academy system.
George King, meanwhile, is set for his first Ireland appearance since the 2022 Rugby League World Cup. After a successful loan spell at Wigan in 2023—where he became a Super League champion—King has continued to impress at Warrington. His return to the Wolfhounds’ fold adds experience and a winning mentality to the Irish lineup.
One notable absentee from the final squad is Liam Byrne. Initially named in the long-haul squad, the Warriors prop—who is set to join Warrington Wolves next season—will not feature in the upcoming Tests. Byrne has been a stalwart for Ireland since 2018, racking up seven caps and representing his heritage on the biggest stage at the 2022 World Cup.
The full Ireland squad is a diverse blend, pulling talent from clubs across the UK, Ireland, and even Australia’s Canterbury Bulldogs. Names like Aaron Lynch and Tom Ashurst (Swinton Lions), Aidan McGowan and Connor Carr (Huddersfield Giants), Brendan O’Hagan (The Entrance Tigers), and many more highlight the depth and reach of Irish rugby league.
As the countdown to the Tests begins, anticipation is building. Fans will be keen to see how the Wolfhounds fare with their new and returning faces, especially against formidable opposition in Wales and at Featherstone. For the Giants Women, the offseason offers a chance to reflect on a season of progress, recharge, and set their sights even higher for the next campaign.
With awards in hand and international dreams on the horizon, both club and country are riding a wave of momentum. The stage is set for another chapter in rugby league’s ever-evolving story—one filled with promise, pride, and plenty more action to come.
