Published: 15th November 2021
Courtman has teamed up with the Giants for 2022, bringing a wealth of experience to the squad ready to compete in the Top Six of the BWSL
Jessica started her open age career with Castleford Panthers, progressing through the girls youth system, before making the move to Bradford Bulls aged 16. Spending six years with the club, a main achievement was completing the treble in 2017 (League, Grand Final and Cup winners). While at Bradford, Jessica made her England debut in 2015, then making the trip to Australia to play in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup. A move was made across to Featherstone Rovers in 2018, unfortunately picking up a long term injury. Then the COVID pandemic forced a delayed return until early 2021. Most recently Jessica has played Rugby Union for Eibar Rugby Taldea in Spain, playing the game professionally.
Jessica comments on joining the Giants: “After coming back to rugby last season after injury, I am now ready to enter a new chapter faster, fitter and stronger. Huddersfield is a club that has brilliant prospects and the progression they have made within a couple of seasons is very impressive. I feel the club is an environment I will thrive in. I consider myself an older player now in terms of experience so I am ready to pass on my knowledge to the next generation of players. The Giants have a lot of talent in the ranks with a brilliant pathway structure for the girls already in place.
I’m hoping I can make an impact within the squad and help Huddersfield continue to improve. There will be some tough games in the top six but I believe with a lot of commitment and hard work, this squad can shock the Women’s Super League and put on some great performances off the back of what was an amazing end to the 2020 season.”
James Westerby, Head of Women & Girl’s Rugby said: “It’s great to have Jess on board for the 2022 season. I’ve admired Jess as a player for a number of years and I feel she can play a massive part in the continuing growth of our squad. Jess is a strong carrier of the ball and hits well in defence. Jess has experienced all levels of the talent pathway, playing at the highest level in the Women’s Super League and also at international level with England. This experience will be invaluable to our young squad. We look forward to working with Jess and the impact she will make in the forthcoming season.”
