TARA Jones has capped a landmark week in the world of rugby league by being named as Saints Ladies first skipper.

The 21-year-old made history at the weekend by becoming the first female official at a Super League game when she was in-goal judge in the Wigan Warriors v Wakefield Trinity clash.

Now the hooker has been given the task of leading Saints women’s team on and off the field in an inaugural Super League season.

Jones said: “To be named as St Helens Ladies captain is an honour and I feel privileged to be given the role.

“With exciting times and challenges ahead I am looking forward to leading the girls and working closely with Saints both on and off the field.

“We have been working hard pre-season and are looking forward to setting a high standard in our first game of the season on April 15 when we face York at home.

"I'd like to say a big thank you to my sponsor ‘A-Star Recruitment’ for supporting me this season!”

Number nine Jones played her rugby at Thatto Heath last term and is seen as one of the future stars of the game both as a player and a match official.

Saints Ladies Head Coach Mark Brennan added: “To have Tara as the captain is great for the team.

"Tara wears her heart on her sleeve and works hard both in training and games.

"Although only young she has a wealth of experience which she will bring to this role.

“She was a little unlucky to miss out on World Cup selection but this has seemed to spur her on to work harder.

"The position she plays as a hooker requires her to lead the team around the park and she does lead from the front.”