Chiefs sign Canadian Star Tessier
Exeter Chiefs are delighted to confirm the signing of Canadian international Alex Tessier ahead of the 23/24 campaign.
Tessier will link up with the Chiefs Women’s Squad at the end of August, making the move across the Atlantic in time for the start of the new PWR season.
Comfortable at both outside half or in the midfield, the 44 times capped Quebec native has been keeping her eye on the performances of the Chiefs from afar.
Tessier was in contact with Head Coach Susie Appleby when the Exeter Chiefs women’s team was first formed, but the timing wasn’t right for the move and instead headed to France to continue her development.
“I’ve watched the team play over the past three years; every year they have grown, and they keep building. I guess that’s one of the things that attracted me, I want to be a part of this.
They were so close to a championship last year and that’s exciting. If I can come and add something and be a part of the team that finally finishes on top, I would be so grateful for that opportunity.
It’s a real challenge, and it’s tough to make it to the final again, but that is one of the things that drives me.”
Following the departure of last season's stalwarts Liv McGoverne & Kate Zackary, the arriving Tessier will bring significant experience to the Chiefs backline as well as the flexibility to play across the midfield.
Tessier won’t be alone in representing Canada in the Chiefs' ranks, as she'll be joining returning stars Emily Tuttosi and Daleaka Menin in Devon.
“I’ve chatted a bit with them, and Emily really convinced me a lot. All she had to say was positive things, on the field and off the field and that is something I’m looking for, that balance, you play well when you’re happy in your life. It’s important to have that life balance with rugby.”
Following the fantastic performances of the past three seasons, it is clear that for Appleby and her squad, the goal is to continue their growth and once again challenge at the very pinnacle of the domestic game in England.
The Chiefs' Head Coach was full of praise for Tessier: "Alex is a proven performer at the highest level and someone we have been looking at for a number of years. She brings experience to our squad that will be incredibly valuable for the coming season and we've seen what she can do on the international stage.
She brings a fantastic run-kick-pass threat to her play which we know keeps opposition defences on their toes, and we can't wait to see those skills played out on the Sandy Park pitch.
With some young players across our backline, the likes of Danielle Preece, Katie Buchanan and Sophie Langford, bringing in someone like Alex who has over 40 caps for her country adds real balance and an experienced voice to the field. We can't wait to welcome her to the Chiefs family and integrate her into life in Devon."
The Exeter Chiefs Women kick off their campaign on Friday, September 22nd, away at Warriors Women in the Allianz Cup, before facing Bristol Bears at home the following weekend. Tickets are available now.