GIANTS WOMEN ANNOUNCE FIRST SIGNING FOR 2026

Huddersfield Giants Women's team have announced their first signing for the upcoming season, with the addition of former York Valkyrie Sade Rihari.

The former York Valkyrie Grand Final winner joins the Giants Women's team as the first new signing as we look to build towards the 2026 campaign, and our goal of breaking into the top four for the first time in our history.

This signing marks a statement of intent for the upcoming season, as we add some new faces to a squad full of young quality, with numerous players making the step up from the runaway leading U19's side.

Head of Women's Rugby, James Westerby said:

"I’ve known Sade for a few years now. I know the qualities Sade possesses both as a person and a rugby league player. Sade’s experience of winning two grand finals will hopefully have a positive effect on our playing squad moving forward as we continue our challenge for the top four."

On signing, Sade explains how much she will relish the opportunity at the Giants next season.

"I’m really looking forward to joining the Huddersfield Giants Women’s team for the 2026 season. I’ve always admired the club’s culture, ambition, and commitment to achieving success and pushing to become one of the top-performing teams in the WSL.

Recent personal circumstances have brought me back to Manchester after my time with York, and I’m extremely grateful for the experiences, memories, and development I gained there. I’d like to wish everyone at York the very best for the future.

Joining the Giants is an exciting new chapter for me, and I’m eager to contribute both on and off the field. I’m determined to bring a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and team-first mindset to everything I do. I’m really looking forward to a strong pre-season, getting to know the girls, and playing my part as the women’s game continues to grow and reach new heights."