Zackary among many to commit to Chiefs

By Mark Stevens
14/7/22

Exeter's very own 'Captain America' Kate Zackary heads up an impressive list of star names who have committed their futures to the Chiefs ahead of the new 2022/23 season.

Last season's Women's Player of the Year returns for a third successive season, where she will again team up with compatriots Gabby Cantorna, Jennine Detiveaux, Rachel Johnson and Hope Rogers.

Zackary, 32, enjoyed a stellar season in the colours of the Chiefs, topping the try-scoring charts, as well as producing a plethora of outstanding on-field displays.

Naturally, head coach Susie Appleby was delighted to keep hold of Zackary, who was being courted by a number of clubs across the Allianz Premier 15s division.

"It's huge news for us," said Appleby. "Kate is a phenomenal player, who has played all across the park for us. She brings huge experience, including leading the USA to the World Cup, and her performances each week are the benchmark for others to follow.

"It's been hard trying to tie her down, particularly as Kate knows what she wants beyond rugby. We're starting to prep her for that, as well as taking advantage of her being a world class player, so we're all excited for what the future holds."

Joining the American contingent in committing their futures to the club is co-captain Poppy Leitch, as well as many others from last season's squad who not only reached their first-ever Premier 15s final, but also got to lift the inaugural Allianz Premier 15s Cup.

Others re-signing at Sandy Park include international stars such as Abby Fleming, Daleaka Menin, Nichola Fryday, Gabby Senft, Laura Sheehan, Eilidh Sinclair, Emily Tuttosi and Linde van der Velden.

"Having that core group of players on board is key," added Appleby. "Many of them have been here a while now and it means we can build on the success of last season, as well as bringing in a new faces that will add real talent and competition for places within the group.

"At the same time, we've also got a solid group of what I would call homegrown talent. They are the future of the club and it's fantastic to see girls from the region being able to step up and play for the Chiefs. We've seen already a number of them already recognised within different areas of the England set-up - and the aim is for that to increase further over the years."

Appleby also admitted there were a number of players still in contract discussions with her ahead of the new season, whilst she is poised to announce a number of new faces joining the club in the coming days.

WOMEN'S PLAYERS RE-SIGNED FOR 2022/23 SEASON

PLAYERS DEPARTING