Born in Halifax, West Yorkshire, Hardcastle first played rugby league for Siddal before taking time away from the game after having her daughter.
On her return Siddal had disbanded their women's team so Hardcastle joined Bradford Bulls.
[4] Over the next 10 years Hardcastle experienced considerable success as Bradford won the league title twice and the Challenge Cup once.
[6] In November 2023, it was announced that Hardcastle had been appointed as the Women's and Girls Rugby League Development Officer at Halifax Panthers.
[11][12] Away from rugby league, Hardcastle is a healthcare assistant in the accident & emergency department at the Royal Halifax Infirmary.