BARROW Raiders Ladies head coach Amanda Wilkinson has been recognised for her efforts in an historic season for the club.

The Ladies became the first Cumbrian side to play in the top tier of the women’s game this season.

And having finished in fifth in their very season at the elite level, head coach Wilkinson has been shortlisted alongside for the Betfred Women’s Super League Coach of the Year Award.

She has been shortlisted alongside Wigan Warriors’ Denis Betts and St Helens’ Matty Smith.

Having won promotion via the play-offs in the 2023 campaign, Wilkinson’s side more than made their mark in their first ever Super League season.

They won three of their last four league games to finish fifth, and were only one place off qualifying for the play-offs.

Speaking to the club’s official website following the announcement, Wilkinson said: “I’m thrilled to have been shortlisted for the Coach of the Year award, and it was a really pleasant surprise when I heard the news.

“I’m joined in the shortlist by Matty and Denis – two wonderful people, and experienced and professional coaches who I admire greatly, both from a personal and professional point of view.

“I want to say that I’m so proud to receive this nomination, but it isn’t just about me and the work I have done with Barrow over the past three years.

“It’s about the culture we have all created, belief in one another and the relentless hard work as a squad that has helped us to achieve our goal of being amongst the best in the game.

“The dedication and commitment from this group of girls, on and off the field, has been great to see.

“Their passion, drive and desire makes it a pleasure to work with them, and once again this season they gone above and beyond our expectations.

“Finishing fifth in the table is reflective of the effort they have put in, and awe can now look back on a 2024 season which the entire club can be proud of.

“I’m honoured to have led this group of trailblazing ladies into the Women’s Super League, and together we will continue to work hard to be the best we can be.”

The winner will be announced at rugby league’s awards night at the Royal Armouries, Leeds on Tuesday October 8, two days after the Betfred Women’s Super League Grand Final.