Loughborough Lightning have secured the services of prolific tryscoring hooker Kathryn Treder on an extended contract.
The 28-year-old spent time with Darlington Mowden Park in the 2022/23 season before making the switch to Lightning for the 2023/24 campaign.
Treder made her debut against Leicester Tigers in December 2023 and would go on to make 13 appearances for the African Violets, clocking up 11 tries in the process – including registering a hat-trick against Tigers in February’s return match at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens.
“It is really nice to be a part of something that is building towards something big,” said Treder. “There are a lot of really great athletes here and it has been great to see the growth that they have had between last season and this season and the way we are gunning for a top-four position.
“I am really comfortable here in Loughborough with my teammates and I am also really buying into our vision and where we’re headed. I am really excited to be a part of that upward trajectory.”
Born in Anchorage, Alaska, Treder made her senior international debut for USA in 2019 against Canada and featured in the 2021 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.
The hooker scored a try on her 20th and most recent Test appearance in May against Australia in the Pacific Four Series, when the Eagles secured a memorable victory in Melbourne.
A key contributing factor to Lightning’s much improved league finish in 2023/24 was their strong lineout and driving maul, from which the majority of Treder’s tries were registered – including one that started from the 22 against Trailfinders in Round 17.
“People might say Treds is the piece at the back of the lineout, however, she is throwing the ball in to make sure that we regain possession and have the ability to maul,” said head coach Nathan Smith. “Also, being able to finish at the back of a maul is a real skill as well. She is certainly skilled enough to get the ball over the line and has worked hard on that area of her game.
“We are delighted to have Treds again for another season. It was a big step up for her this year coming from Darlington Mowden Park but she had managed to make that step and has played a lot of minutes for us this season. She is exceptional in the setpiece and her game around the park is growing as well, we are lucky to have her.”
Treder follows Helen Nelson, Rachel Malcolm, Christine Belisle, Emma Wassell, Megan Davey, Sadia Kabeya, Bo Westcombe-Evans, Lilli Ives Campion, Catherine O’Donnell, Carmela Morrall and Lia Green on extending their contracts into the 2024/25 – with more re-signings to be announced in the coming weeks.
Alongside the contract extensions, Lightning have also confirmed their first two signings of the summer with Alev Kelter and Alicia Maude teaming up with Loughborough next term.
Loughborough Lightning season tickets for the 2024/25 season are available now from just £40* for adults and £20* children, click HERE for more information.
With thanks to Loughborough Lightning
