Zackary set for final push

By Harry Scott-Munro
3/6/22

Exeter Chiefs Women’s co-captain Kate Zackary was honest in her appraisal that it ‘will mean everything’ to lead her side out in today’s Allianz Premier15s final at Sixways.

Zackary’s Chiefs side secured a pulsating 28-24 victory over Westcountry rivals Bristol Bears in the semi-finals a fortnight ago, setting up a date with destiny against a powerful Saracens outfit.

For the Chiefs, it is a first league final, but a second final of the season, with Zackary explaining how the squad were feeling refreshed from having a weekend without playing.

“We’re feeling good. It was nice to have the weekend off to rest up, but we’ve come in blazing now.”

The American has been in sublime form for the Chiefs this season, topping the try charts from the back-row. Zackary feels that her game has come in considerably during her time with the Chiefs and credits the coaching she has received from Head Coach Susie Appleby and Assistant Coach Steve Salvin.

“I like to think that I’m playing much better than I have previously. It comes from experience but from also being surrounded by coaches like Susie and Steve and the men’s staff. We have a shared resource here. What’s been so enticing is that full-time environment. That’s how everyone can be successful and that’s why an environment like this is so good.”

Whilst Saracens have threats all over the park, one whom Zackary is particularly familiar with is international compatriot Alev Kelter. The Chiefs co-captain credits Kelter as ‘a class player’ and feels that she will be a key weapon for Exeter’s opponents on Friday.

“It’s the pace and power. She’s athletically gifted and brings players with her. That’s why she’s so crucial for Sarries.”

This season, the rapid rise of the Chiefs Women has meant that the players have become much more recognisable to the general Exeter public. Whilst Zackary joked that people hear her accent and instantly assume that she is ‘one of those Americans who play rugby,’ she admitted that the upswell in support around Exeter has been something that the squad have relished.

“Because of the accent, people notice me! But it’s really good. Everyone in the city is really excited for it. It’s not even just this week either. You find yourself now going into the shops and people stop to say good luck, which is super exciting.”

Zackary also revealed that in the build-up to the rugby world cup, she is now focusing purely on rugby, rather than balancing the demands of professional sport and a job. Whilst the backrow explained that it had been a challenge to uproot from America to Devon, she highlighted how it had been made easier by her girlfriend moving over too, to study in London.

“It’s one of those things. My partner is now over here, although she is in London studying. With family, it's hard to go back and forth and it’s the same with work too. I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s time to just be a rugby player building up to the world cup, so it’s a big decision.”

Zackary finished by explaining just how much it means to her and the squad to have made it into the final, with the opportunity for the Chiefs to be the best in the land one that she was relishing.

“It means everything. Every week, people ask what ifs. What if you get there? What if you win it? The answer doesn’t change; it means and would mean everything. It’s what we’ve uprooted our lives to do. We’re here to win the trophy and represent Exeter Chiefs and Devon as the best in the country.”

Whatever the outcome today, this has been a season that has announced the arrival of the Chiefs as a big hitter in the women’s game. After their ascent up the table, the first part of their journey is nearly complete and Zackary feels that regardless of the result, her side need to celebrate just how far they have come.

“Win or lose, we will celebrate Friday and close this first chapter together.”