The Widnes Vikings Women are ready to embark on a brand-new era in 2024, with a new coach at the helm and plenty of other exciting developments ahead of next season.
The club is holding open trials across four dates this October for anyone who wants to try Women’s Rugby League, and our new Head Coach Dom Dean is keen to welcome players of all abilities as the Vikings look to expand our reach in the women’s game.
“I moved into women’s coaching back in 2018 and have loved it ever since”, said Dom, speaking to Vikings Media. “This is a new journey that I’m really happy to be on board with. It’s a great time to be involved with the club and the women’s section.”
Beginning his coaching career at the age of just 19 while at Leigh East, Dom first worked in Women’s RL in 2018 at Wigan Warriors, before moving on to coach both the Warrington Wolves’ and North Wales Crusaders’ Women.
“We’re really hoping to build a lasting legacy at Widnes, and that starts with the next 18 months, making a steady progression as we implement our long-term plans and strategies.”
For now, the main focus is very much on the upcoming season. “We want to be a competitive side playing some good rugby in the Women’s Championship, and push towards Super League as a long-term goal.”
“The club have big plans for our women’s section, and hosting open trials at the DCBL Stadium over the next few weeks is the first step towards that. Use of the club’s first-team facilities, as well as continuing the fantastic work done in the wider Widnes community, will help to develop our team on and off the pitch.”
“The upcoming trials are open to absolutely everyone, regardless of whether you’ve played since you could walk or you’ve never picked up a rugby ball before. We want to build a culture and team spirit that is focused on development, with a view to setting up a reserves team in the future.”
“Success for the women’s team means success for the club overall, as well as the town itself. Inspiring others to take up the sport is a massive part of everything we do, and if we can get more eyes on the women’s side of the game then that will only help us improve further.”
Signing off with a message to the fans and any potential new players, Dom said “We’re on the cusp of a really exciting time for Widnes, but there’s lots of work to do before we can get there. Please come and given Women’s RL a try, it’s open to everyone and we look forward to welcoming you into our Rugby League family.”
The aforementioned open trials at the DCBL Stadium will take place on the following dates:
- 19th October – 7:00 until 8:00pm
- 21st October – 9:00 until 10:00am
- 26th October – 7:00 until 8:00pm
- 28th October – 9:00 until 10:00am
To register your interest for the trials, email catherinebharrison@hotmail.co.uk, and we’ll see you there!
