Barrow Raiders Ladies have made their fourth signing ahead of their debut in the Women’s Super League.
Forward Vanessa Temple Wigan in their inaugural 2018 season and went on to make 15 appearances, scoring five tries. The second-rower then played seven more games in 2019, and nine in 2021.
She has represented Lancashire in the Origin Series, and was also picked for England’s tour of France in 2018.
Temple was coached by Barrow Raiders Ladies head coach Amanda Wilkinson at Wigan, and says she’s excited to reunite ahead of the upcoming campaign.
She said: “I’ve played under Amanda before at Wigan Warriors and I can’t wait to play under her again.
“She taught me so much and attracted me to Barrow because it’s close to home with living in Kendal and being Cumbrian, it seems fitting to play for a Cumbrian side.
“I was part of the team that won the Grand Final in 2018. I’ve also played rugby union at Waterloo including three years at Premiership level and I’ve played AFL for England as well.
“I’ll miss Wigan a lot. They have been good to me but it’s time for a new chapter and helping a local side make a stand in the Super League.”
Discussing Temple’s arrival Wilkinson said: “It’s been a busy few weeks following the trials. The numbers and the ability were very impressive so I’ve had some tough decisions to make.
“We have attracted a few new faces following the trials which is great, and all Cumbrians too. Having players that have played for such a big club like Wigan is good for Barrow as they will bring with them a wealth of experience.
“Ness is such a strong individual with the desire to be the best she can be. She has such energy and passion for the sport. I love players that enjoy contact, run with intent, create and make opportunities from nothing with their sheer strength, skill and determination, attributes I believe Ness has.
“She is a pleasure to coach and the type of player most will be proud to play alongside.
“Ness developed and adapted so quickly from rugby union to rugby league. In her first year in the game at Wigan she was selected for the England training squad and the Lancashire Origin too, and this reflects what a good athlete she is.”
