JOHNSON-STRAFFORD PREVIEWS ILLINGWORTH CLASH

Bradford Bulls Women’s Head Coach Gail Johnson-Strafford has spoken of her excitement ahead of the side’s first pre-season fixture – against Illingworth this Sunday.

Johnson-Strafford is entering her first year as head coach having been the Assistant Coach in recent seasons. 

The squad has taken on a new look in 2025, with over 30 players part of the biggest squad that’s been built in years and includes 15 players from the club’s inaugural ‘Girls Development Trials’ last year. 

Having discussed the challenge of ‘gelling’ the players together, Gail insists there is a lot to be excited about heading into the new season. 

“I am excited and ready for the challenge ahead. There are a few nerves kicking in but we are looking to get a good job done on Sunday,” said Johnson-Strafford, who is sponsored by Natalie Lane.

“It’s been a tough pre-season, we have quite a young group but there are a lot of experienced players as well so trying to gel everyone together has been a challenge but I am excited to see what is possible with this group and hopefully our hard work comes to fruition and we get those wins on gameday. 

“I like the fact there are so many young players here who want to play for Bradford, there are players who have gone out of their way to come to Bradford and I am excited to see where it takes us. We have not had this number of players for some time so I am excited to see how they get on, starting this Sunday.

“We have a couple of different options, there are a few different half backs and full backs so we are looking to see who connects together on Sunday and see who works best throughout the year but it will be a different squad from previous years. 

“There is a real buzz about the place, there is a really tight knit group here. If you haven’t seen us before, just come down and watch you’ll see big hits, offloads, hard running and some big tackles, you won’t be disappointed!”