Brittain ready for Rhinos to overcome unconventional preparation for 2025 season

Beth Brittain believes her NIC Leeds Rhinos side have been brought closer together by the challenges they have faced ahead of the new Netball Super League season.

Rhinos lost head coach Liana Leota in November, with replacement Lauren Palmer not taking up her position until January.

Brittain, who was appointed Rhinos captain ahead of the 2025 season, admitted that meant preparation were not perfect but believes the circumstances have forged a deep bond between the squad that will pay off in matches.

“It was just about getting through it and everyone stepping up, not just the senior players but the younger players as well had to step up and get on with it,” said Brittain.

“The girls have found it difficult. Maggie [Birkinshaw], our assistant coach, has stepped up and players have stepped up. Actually, it has brought us closer.

“You can expect us to fight until the end of every game and have that never say die attitude, because of the pre-season that we have had we have built that relentlessness.”

That relentless mentality was on full show at the Netball Super Cup, as Rhinos reached the final where they were narrowly beaten by London Pulse.

It is positive signs for Brittain, who believes her new group of players will only get better as the season goes on.

“For me it is about being competitive in every game, I don’t want to be written off by any team,” she said. “We are a new group and have had our challenges.

“It has been great to hit the ground running with Lauren and get as much done as possible in the run up to the start of the season.”

Brittain was appointed captain by the new management, taking over from England legend Geva Mentor, who will continue to hold down the defensive end for Rhinos well over two decades on from her Super League debut.

And Brittain revealed she is pleased to have Mentor’s wealth of experience helping her as vice-captain.

“It is a huge support system for me, it is really comforting to have her by my side,” added Brittain.

“She has been so great and so supportive; I think that is what they meant by natural progression. She can steer the ship as well and guide me into becoming a captain.

“I demand really high standards of myself, so I really expect that back from players as well.

“Hopefully we are also creating an environment where everyone feels safe, everyone can push each other and challenge each other.”

Rhinos will play matches at both the Canon Medical Arena in Sheffield and First Direct Arena in Leeds, and Brittain hopes the Yorkshire faithful and beyond will show up and create a fearsome northern atmosphere.

“We have got to get bums on seats, we have got to get as many people interested as possible,” she enthused.

“It is incredible that Sky have tripled their coverage but ultimately, we want the atmosphere, we want everyone in the arena and witnessing it live.

“I am hoping we can have our Leeds community around us, it is just about getting those tickets sold.”

Image credit: Morgan Harlow