Welsh international Jodie Boyd-Ward has been named as the captain of the Rhinos Wheelchair team for the 2023 season.
Jodie has played for the Rhinos since 2013 and will embark on her 15th year in the sport this coming season. She was part of the Rhinos team who won the treble in 2021 and is a two time Challenge Cup and League Leaders’ Shield winner.
On the international scene, she has played in three World Cups and was ever present for Wales in last year’s tournament.
Speaking about her appointment as Wheelchair captain, Boyd-Ward said: “Being announced as captain of the Rhinos is a huge honour, especially following on from James Simpson. I was reminded several times about how long I’ve been in this game for, so hopefully I can continue to bring that experience and knowledge to the team, just in a slightly different role.”
“Our season starts this weekend so it’s going to be exciting to lead my team out for the first time!”
Head coach, James Simpson, who captained the Rhinos last season before his retirement said Boyd-Ward was the perfect person to take on the role.
Commenting on naming Boyd-Ward as captain, Simpson said: “Our team is full of quality leaders on and off the field so I had to think long and hard about who would lead the team in the 2023 season.
“Jodie is an immensely experienced player, domestically and internationally. She leads by example on the field, especially in defence where she’s not afraid to get stuck in. She is a well-respected member of the team who will bring a level head and voice on the field when the going gets tough. As the last captain it gave me huge pride to pass the baton onto Jodie and I know she’ll do an incredible job”
Jodie will lead out her team in the Rhinos’ first match of the season against Warrington Wolves this coming Saturday, in Round 1 of the Betfred Wheelchair Super League.
Leeds Rhinos Wheelchair also confirmed their squad for the 2023 season:
| Number | Name | Sponsor |
| 1 | Nathan Collins | Emma Winter Massage Therapy |
| 3 | Josh Butler | Skyliner Restaurant |
| 4 | Nathan Mullhall | Available to Sponsor |
| 5 | Dan Cutts | Available to Sponsor |
| 6 | Ewan Clibbens | Available to Sponsor |
| 7 | Tom Halliwell | Available to Sponsor |
| 8 | Paul Horrobin | Available to Sponsor |
| 9 | Verity Smith | Medway Pride Radio |
| 10 | Jodie Boyd Ward | Available to Sponsor |
Coaching Staff
James Simpson