The P2P initiative is designed for female players in their final two school years and provides a clear route for young athletes to progress towards elite-level rugby. Emma is one of just 14 new players invited to the programme this September, while Leah returns for her second year after a successful debut season.

Both pupils also proudly fly the flag for Hill House School rugby. Earlier this year, Emma was part of the U14 Hill House squad that reached the quarter-finals at Rosslyn Park, while Leah played in the U16 team that triumphed at the same tournament, adding to their success in 2023, when they won as U14s.

Their selection highlights the growing reputation of Hill House as a nurturing ground for girls’ rugby.

Emma, who was recently named amongst the new recruits, has already shown huge promise on the field and will now benefit from access to top-level coaching, training facilities, and development opportunities at Leeds Rhinos.

Leah, who continues into her second season on the programme, has impressed with her commitment and performance, setting an example for younger players both at school and in the wider rugby community. In addition to her rugby success, she also won a national silver medal this year with the U16 girls’ hockey team at the Tier 2 National Final, held at the Olympic Hockey Stadium in London.

Hill House School’s Head of Girls’ Rugby, Mr Jacob Robinson said:

“We are incredibly proud of Emma and Leah for earning their place in such a competitive programme. Their hard work, resilience, and passion for the game truly embody the spirit of Hill House rugby. We can’t wait to see what they achieve with Leeds Rhinos and beyond.”