YORK VALKYRIE FORWARD AIMEE STAVELEY ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

York Valkyrie has announced the retirement of forward Aimee Staveley after a trophy-laden rugby league career.

Staveley joined York ahead of the 2023 campaign from Leeds Rhinos and was an ever present for the Valkyrie during her one season with the Club, scoring two tries in 17 appearances.

The prop's final outing was as an interchange in the Betfred Women's Super League Grand Final victory over Leeds, with Staveley also clinching the League Leaders' Shield in the BWSL with York earlier in the season.

The 34-year-old's career comes to an end after previous spells with Stanningley, Bradford Bulls and Leeds, winning a total of four BWSL Grand Final titles, two Betfred Women's Challenge Cups and two BWSL League Leaders' Shields.

On her decision to hang up her boots, 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 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.

"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."

Director of Rugby Lindsay Anfield, who is proudly sponsored by Acomb Travel, 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."