Women’s captain and vice captain announced

Laura Thorley has been named captain of the Roughyeds Women’s team, ahead of the 2026 Northern League 3 campaign.

The 41-year-old brings a wealth of experience, having played union during her service in the British Army, where she captained the Army Medical Services side.

“I am over the moon, it is a proud moment for me and I am very happy,” she said.

I can hand on heart say that this team, including all the players, coaching staff, management and physio mean the absolute world to me – they are like a second family.

I am going to take this opportunity to lead us from strength to strength, empowering my teammates and bringing out the best in us as players.

We have all gelled together and there is 100% commitment from the girls who are coming on really well.”

Oldham-born Thorley will be joined alongside Holly Coburn who has been selected as vice captain by head coach Ben Marsden.

Coburn is another experienced head, having played the sport from the age of six, winning championships while at high school as well as representing her county in her early teens.

The 27-year-old took some time out of the game due to injury but is back fit and firing and the pair are ready to lead Oldham into the season.

“I am proud and privileged to be taking it on the role of vice captain,” she said.

The commitment to each other is really good, we are there for each other. It is a really good culture to be a part of, as well.

To be given the opportunity to help lead the team is really exciting. As we take shape over pre-season, the grit and determination within the group is next level.

I’m proud of everyone and proud to be part of this club going into the season ahead.”

On the appointments, head coach Ben Marsden said:

“Laura has been leading the team on and off the field.

She has shown the qualities which will support the team massively going into the season and has played a pivotal role so far.

Holly has a wealth of experience and her ability to support players around her and bring on developing players has been invaluable to the team.”

Roughyeds Women take on Keighley Cougars at Cougar Park on February 8 in the side’s first pre-season game ahead of the league fixtures.

The team will be competing against the likes of North Wales Crusaders and Wigan St Patricks for promotion, with fixture lists set to be confirmed by the Rugby Football League soon.