UK
Commencing this 2025 season, Christeyns is now a proud sponsor of the Bradford Bulls Women’s Rugby League team, at what is undoubtably an exciting time in the history of the Women’s rugby in general. The Women’s Rugby Union World Cup will be held in England this year, generating increased recognition in women’s commitment to the sport and growing the popularity in both League and Union clubs across the country.
“We are delighted to welcome Christeyns UK on board as one of our sponsors for the 2025 season,” said Natalie Moorhouse, joint head of women’s and girls’ rugby at Bradford Bulls. “Our team represents a dedicated group of athletes who are passionate about rugby league and we are well-prepared and excited for the up-coming season.”
Bradford-based Christeyns first entered a partnership with Bradford Bulls in 2022 when it became the club’s official supplier of laundry detergents, setting up wash processes and providing technical support. The firm continues to provide this support for all the teams at the Club, whose home ground is Odsal Stadium.
The squad of 34 women range in age from 16-39 and as of 2024 compete in the Northern Women’s Championships. Bradford Bulls recently announced the appointment of Gail Johnson-Strafford as Head Coach of the Women’s Team for the 2025 season with Ellen Johnson-Strafford as Captain and Jessica Clements as vice-captain. Their first game took place on February 23rd when the team stepped out in their fresh, modern kit, paying homage to the club’s iconic red, amber and black colour scheme.
Women’s rugby is one of sport’s great success stories, experiencing unprecedented growth around the world. Propelled by World Rugby’s Women’s Plan and various campaigns, female participation levels have risen to over 2.7 million players globally. According to World Rugby, more than a quarter of the overall playing population is now female, with a 28 per cent increase in registered players since 2017.
Formed in 1999 as Dudley Hill Thunderbirds, the team was also known as Bradford Thunderbirds and Bradford Clayton Thunderbirds. After the early success and more popularity in Bradford women’s rugby league, the club dropped the Thunderbirds moniker and linked up with the Bradford Bulls adopting the Bulls’ colours, name and playing at Odsal Stadium
Justin Kerslake, operations director at Christeyns UK said: “Community support and engagement is at the heart of all we do at Christeyns UK and it is our absolute pleasure to support the Women’s team. We are delighted to play a small part in encouraging community sport, allowing young women an opportunity to develop their sporting skills and represent their City. We hope it will be a successful season for all.”
https://www.world.rugby/organisation/about-us/womens
