BWSL Grand Final: Woods targeting dream finish in first season

Petra Woods has been at the heart of York Valkyrie’s rise this season, making an immediate impact in her first campaign with the club and earning the 2026 Back of the Year award in recognition of her standout performances. 

On Sunday, she will take to the field in the biggest match of her career when her side meet Wigan Warriors in the 2026 Betfred Super League Grand Final, with the Valkyrie aiming to regain the title.

“I started Rugby League in 2016 in preparation for the 2017 World Cup. I came from a Rugby Union background and at the time Canada had been graced with a spot at the upcoming World Cup so a few players in our country tried to learn the rules of Rugby League and switch over the code so that we could attend,” said Woods.  

“That’s when my journey started really and since then I’ve been involved with the Canada Ravens which is our national team.” 

The Valkyrie have had a turbulent campaign but have come back into form when it matters most, with the last meeting between the sides resulting in the Warriors’ first loss in all competitions this season. 

“We've taken a lot of confidence in that must win match against Wigan, the efforts from our middle specifically, for the full 80 was incredible,” added Woods.  

“Our team this year has faced so much adversity and we've shown resilience in most of the challenges that we've faced. 

“York is an organisation that has undergone so many changes in 2026 and I know that the efforts and the passion from our current leadership and all the years past, will be rooting for us to come away with a win this week."

For Woods, winning the Grand Final on Sunday would mean so much:

“A lot of the girls have had such long careers with York, but all the way through to people like myself and Monique Donovan, where it's our first season here in the Super League, to lift the trophy would be such a career highlight.  

“We would be so proud of ourselves, our coaching staff, and everyone who's believed in us since day one if we're able to pull this off.” 

Watch Wigan Warriors face York Valkyrie in the Betfred Women's Super League Grand Final on Sunday 27 September, live on Sky Sports (K.O. 5.30pm).

Tickets are available here!