Lindsay Anfield: York Valkyrie director of rugby steps down after four years in role

York Valkyrie director of rugby Lindsay Anfield has stepped down from her position at the club after four years in charge.

After joining in 2021, Anfield led the club to that year’s Women’s Challenge Cup final in which they were defeated by St Helens.

She went on to guide them to the League Leaders’ Shield in 2022 and 2023, while also winning consecutive Women’s Super League Grand Finals in 2023 and 2024.

“I feel privileged to have been part of so many players’ lives and development, and to have contributed to the growth of the Valkyrie,” she said, external.

“I wanted the players to feel valued and have positive experiences on and off the field. If I’ve achieved that, it’s all been thanks to the support of the staff I’ve worked with and the buy-in from the girls.”

Anfield was named women’s coach of the year in 2023 off the back of a double-winning season.

York could not, however, maintain their Women’s Super League crown in 2025, losing in the semi-finals of the play-offs to eventual finalists St Helens.

Chairman Clint Goodchild said: “Lindsay has played an enormous role in shaping what the York Valkyrie have become.

“Her impact goes far beyond wins and trophies — she’s helped build a culture of professionalism, belief and pride that has transformed women’s rugby league in York and across the country.”