The RFL have accepted a request from Castleford Tigers to drop to Group 2 of the Betfred Women’s Super League in 2022.
In a statement on their website, the Tigers explain that they have taken this decision "to best promote the development of a young squad and the long-term sustainable growth of the club’s women's and girls' pathways."
Thomas Brindle, the BWSL General Manager and RFL Head of Growth, said: "Castleford Tigers have been a valued member of Women's Super League since the competition was launched. Having considered the challenges the club has faced, and taking into account results so far this season, we have agreed and support the club's request to play in Betfred Women’s Super League Group 2 in 2022. We will be making the necessary adjustments to the competition structure in the near future."
Matty Faulkner, Head Coach and Pathways Manager for the Tigresses, said: "Coming to Castleford, the vision was to build a more sustainable girls and women's pathway in the local area. This move will give us the opportunity to build this whilst challenging our girls at a suitable level. They have worked extremely hard in such a short space of time to play against three strong teams in the Challenge Cup. After an honest reflection process, we feel that this is the best move for us and will make us stronger and sustainable in the long term."
Castleford won the League Leaders' Shield in 2019, and reached the BWSL Grand Final and also the Challenge Cup Final, losing to Leeds Rhinos on each occasion. They have also played a key role in the development of a number of the England Women squad.
