Former St Helens, Hull FC and Bradford Bulls talent Leon Pryce has made his return to rugby league coaching after landing a new role.
Pryce, who had a stint as head coach of Workington Town in 2018 and 2019, last worked as an assistant coach at Featherstone Rovers under Sean Long in the 2023 season.
Appointed at the start of the year, Pryce had left by mid-June as the club transitioned to a more full-time training schedule in their bid to earn promotion to Super League, which ultimately didn’t come.
Now though, Pryce is back in the coaching game and he’s been confirmed as the new head coach of York Valkyrie in an eye-catching move that now means two of the sport’s top four teams will be coached by former Great Britain stars with treble-winning Wigan Warriors are coached by Denis Betts.
Pryce’s appointment comes hours after confirmation that director of rugby Lindsay Anfield had stepped down after five years in charge.
Leon Pryce appointed head coach of York Valkyrie
The club had plenty of success under Anfield, finishing top of Super League in 2022 and 2023 as well as the Grand Finals in 2023 and 2024, becoming the first side to successfully defend their crown.
Despite falling short in the semi-finals of both the Challenge Cup and Super League this year, there’s still plenty of talent in the group that Leon Pryce will be tasked with lifting back to silverware.
A statement from the Valkyrie confirmed the appointment, announcing: “Former Great Britain international, Leon Pryce has been appointed as the new head coach of York Valkyrie!
“He takes over from Director of Rugby, Lindsay Anfield who has stepped down after five seasons in charge.”
A four-time Super League Grand Final winner, Pryce started and ended his career with Bradford before spells at St Helens, Catalans and Hull FC, whilst also playing internationally for England and Great Britain a total of 26 times.
Chairman Clint Goodchild sang his praises, stating: “Leon is one of the most respected figures in rugby league, with an incredible career as both a player and a coach. His passion for developing players and his deep understanding of the game will bring tremendous energy to our Club.
“The Valkyrie have set new standards for women’s rugby league in recent years, and Leon’s appointment marks the next exciting chapter in that journey.
“His leadership, and commitment to excellence align with what we’re building here in York.”
It seems that the Valkyrie, whose season ended at the hands of St Helens in September, have already met Pryce as Goodchild revealed: “Leon has already made a fantastic impression on the playing group with his energy, and genuine respect for what the Valkyrie have achieved.
“He brings a wealth of experience, a winning mentality, and a real sense of purpose to the role.
“We can’t wait to see the impact he’ll have on the group as we continue to grow and chase success.”
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