YORK Valkyrie teenager Hollie-Mae Dodd has become the first English woman to sign a professional rugby league deal in Australia.

The 19-year-old loose forward will join up with NRLW club Canberra Raiders prior to the start of pre-season training next month.

Dodd made her last appearance for Valkyrie in their emphatic win at Leeds Rhinos on the opening day of the new Betfred Women’s Super League season on Easter Sunday, which ended in a 34-12 at Headingley.

Valkyrie coach Lindsay Anfield alluded to Dodd’s departure after the game, calling it an “absolutely massive” moment for the player and the club.

Dodd, who plays predominantly at loose forward, started at Castleford in 2019 and made her England debut in their 60-0 win over Wales in 2021.

She left Castleford to join York in December that same year, helping them claim last season’s League Leaders’ Shield as well as starring in England’s run to the Rugby World Cup semi-finals.

Dodd said: “I’ve loved my time here at York and last year was the best season of my rugby career, winning the League Leaders’ Shield.

“As soon as I arrived at York, the girls were really welcoming and I will miss them a lot. But this opportunity, to play in Australia, which has been one of my life-long dreams, was one that I couldn’t turn down.

“Everyone at the Club, especially Lindsay and Clint [Goodchild, Chairman], have helped me out massively. I’ve really appreciated their support in being able to make his move happen.

“Lindsay has put me through my paces at times, but I’ve massively appreciated that. She’s the best Coach in the competition and I really appreciate what she has done for the girls.

“Since moving to York, she’s helped the growth of the game and everyone appreciates what she’s done for the sport.”

Valkyrie Director of Rugby Anfield said: “We’re fully behind Hollie and backing her to become a success in the NRLW.

“I’m really proud that she has become the first Betfred Women’s Super League player to make the move to the NRLW.”