Leeds Rhinos Star Bella Sykes: Balancing books and breakthroughs on the pitch

Following a breakout season with the Rhinos that saw her named Super League Young Player of the Year and called up to the England squad, Bella is now navigating her second year of a Physical Education degree at Leeds Beckett's Carnegie School of Sport.

She said: "Playing sport, studying, and earning - there's a lot to fit into one day but I've been offered a lifestyle coach, so it's pretty well-balanced."

That coaching support is just one part of the talented athlete scholarship scheme (TASS) at Leeds Beckett, which gives student-athletes access to world-class performance facilities, strength and conditioning programmes, and guidance in nutrition and sports psychology.

Growing up watching her dad play for Castleford, Bella's journey into rugby league began in Huddersfield, where she quickly made a name for herself by joining her first team at 14 and landing a spot in the top league by 16.

Reflecting on the rapid rise, she said: "Being put in the Super League at 16 was tough, but it did me a lot of good."

While Bella acknowledges the evolving nature of women's rugby league, she's seen significant strides in the sport's development.

"The game has grown massively over the last couple of years, and I never thought I would get paid for it.

"A number of clubs are now offering payment in different forms, which is great. Australia is ahead; they've got it full-time, so I understand why players go there to make a living in a competitive league. But the grassroots here are developing, with under-19 academies so young players don't get thrown in at 16 like I did."

Alongside her demanding schedule, Bella finds time to coach the university's new women's rugby league team - a role she feels passionate about.

"If I wasn't playing at the level I am, I'd be like the girls at training. I'd want to play for fun and enjoyment. I see other women's sports growing, and I know league can grow as well if it has the investment and profile."

Bella's achievements off the field were recently celebrated, where she received the Super League Young Player of the Year award. Modestly, she hadn't expected to win and had even suggested her mum skip the ceremony, but the win boosted her confidence without changing her perspective.

"It's a great honour, but it doesn't change anything. I don't go into a season thinking, 'I want to win this award', it's more about how to help Leeds be better. If anything, it means I need to work harder."

With her eye on the future, Bella continues to keep the pressure on herself but in a balanced way.

"I try to enjoy Saturdays and let things happen as they will. More stress, and I don't play well."

Bella's journey is an inspiring example for other students and young women athletes balancing their passion with academic and career goals.

Bella encourages women of all experience levels to join the university's women's rugby league team, whether they're new to the sport or looking to take their skills to the next level.

"Rugby is for everyone. If you're interested, come down, give it a try, and just enjoy the game. There's a great community, and it's a brilliant way to keep active and build confidence."

The team is growing fast, and new players are always welcome. For more information, contact Mark Butterill, m.butterill@leedsbeckett.ac.uk or reach out through the Leeds Beckett Rugby League social media channels.