Denis Betts has been named the Betfred Women's Super League Coach of the Year following an outstanding 2026 season with Wigan Warriors. The award recognises his third year as head coach of the club, during which the Warriors have secured the Women's Challenge Cup and the League Leaders' Shield.
Betts, a former Man of Steel and Lance Todd Trophy winner, joined Wigan's women's programme at the start of the 2024 season. Under his leadership, the Warriors have dominated the competition, winning the Women's Challenge Cup with a 54-6 victory over St Helens at Wembley Stadium and finishing top of the Women's Super League table to secure direct qualification for the Grand Final.
2026 Season Highlights
Wigan opened their league and cup campaign with 12 consecutive victories, scoring 350 points and conceding just 82 in the Challenge Cup. The club finished the regular Super League season as League Leaders, building on a historic quadruple-winning campaign in 2025.
Award Presentation and Upcoming Grand Final
Betts will receive the Betfred Women's Super League Coach of the Year award at the Rugby League Awards Night in Manchester on Tuesday 29 September. The same evening will see the crowning of the 2026 Woman of Steel and BWSL Young Player of the Year. The 2026 Rugby League Awards will be streamed live via the Super League YouTube channel.
Wigan Warriors will face York Valkyrie in the Betfred Women's Grand Final, with kick-off at 5.30pm. The final will be held as a double-header, with a promotional play-off final between the winners of the Women's Championship and the team finishing fourth in the BWSL Shield Competition taking place beforehand. Unreserved seating is available in the East Stand of the Brick Community Stadium, with tickets on sale now.