Aimee Staveley playing against Warrington Wolves. Photo credit: York Valkyrie via Craig Hawkhead
York Valkyrie prop Aimee Staveley announces her retirement after Betfred Women’s Super League Grand Final victory over Leeds Rhinos.
Staveley has had a decorated career for Bradford, Leeds, York and Stanningley, picking up 4 BWSL Grand Final wins, 2 Women’s Challenge Cups and 2 BWSL League Leaders’ Shields – her most recent LLS coming for York.
She came on from the bench in the Valkyrie’s home Grand Final against Leeds, in which they won 16-6.
Staveley also represented her county Yorkshire in the Women’s State of County series back in 2018.
She joined York following a lengthy career with the Leeds Rhinos: “I came to York knowing that this would be my last season and I would put everything into it. To be able to end having won the Grand Final and the League Leaders’ Shield here, I know that now is the right time to retire.
Staveley said: “I became a foster carer in 2021 and since then I’ve found that I’ve had to put things on the back-burner and I was having to put my own needs before the children’s, which wasn’t sustainable.
“I’ve absolutely loved my time here at York, everyone has welcomed me with open arms. I see myself as an old-fashioned rugby league player, but everyone has embraced that and embraced me.
“I am proud of what I’ve achieved in the sport and I guess now I can appreciate more the medals that are in the loft at my parents!
“But I’m more proud of the friendships that I’ve made and the people that I’ve met in rugby league, I’ve been really fortunate.”
Staveley’s Head Coach and Director of Rugby Lindsay Anfield said: “Aimee has been a great asset to our squad during her year here at York, bringing a level of the maturity and experience that we have we needed this season.
“Her commitment and work ethic are second to none, and she has made positive relationships with all the squad and coaching staff.
“I don’t think there could have been a better game to end her career on than winning the 2023 BWSL Grand Final against Leeds Rhinos, so she definitely leaves the game on a high.
“We wish her well for the future and are grateful for the dedication she has shown to York RLFC.”
Check out our rugby coverage here.
Follow Sporting Her on social media: Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Youtube
