Mikiela Nelson joins Chiefs front row club

Canadian international Mikiela Nelson has signed a contract to bring her Sandy Park from Vancouver.

The 26-year-old loosehead had considered a move to the UK previously but was delayed by the pandemic. She played in the 2021 Women’s Rugby World Cup, scoring a try in Canada’s opening game against Japan.

Chiefs head coach Susie Appleby said: “Canada has provided Chiefs with several talented players who have an impressive work ethic and are a delight off the pitch as well. I have no doubt that Mikiela will bring more of that same positivity and skill. We cannot wait to welcome her to Sandy Park.”

Nelson said: “I’m thrilled to have signed with Exeter and be playing my first season in the Allianz PWR. I’ve been following Exeter and the league for the last few seasons, and I was considering moving over in 2020, however with the uncertainty of the pandemic, I decided to stay home and attend university and spent the next couple years as a student athlete.

“I’ve just completed my season at the Capilano Rugby Football Club and now I’m really looking forward to experiencing a new environment, learning the style and culture of rugby, and to join my Canadian mates and meet new people and learn from them!

“The support I’ve had from Steve (Salvin – assistant coach), Susie and the rest of the staff during the process of signing and preparing to move overseas makes me confident I’ve made the right choice in a club that cares for its players. I just can’t wait to get my feet on the ground and get stuck into preseason and see where this year takes me!”