Ellen Scantlebury has extended her Loughborough Lightning contract after a breakthrough first season at the Club.
The Somerset-born winger started life at Loughborough in the University’s BUCS Second XV before progressing into the first team.
Scantlebury’s journey along the pathway saw her make a try-scoring Lightning debut against Gloucester-Hartpury in September 2023’s Allianz Cup game before a full Allianz Premiership Women’s Rugby debut followed against Bristol Bears in February 2024.
The Sports Coaching student finished her maiden Lightning season with three tries in ten appearances while also playing a starring role in Loughborough University’s run to the BUCS National Championship final.
Scantlebury said: “My first season at Lightning has been amazing! Making my PWR debut was such a great experience and I’m really thankful for the opportunity. It’s been a real whirlwind but so good to do it with such a great group of girls!
“Lightning has a great pathway and we’ve had such great opportunities through BUCS, the Allianz Cup and PWR. Going into my final year at university, I want to make the most of every opportunity I can get, and Loughborough is the best place to do it.
“This season I want to push myself to have a regular spot in the team and make a mark in the PWR. I hope to bring energy and confidence to the girls around me and do my part in pushing for top four!”
Loughborough Lightning head coach Nathan Smith said: “Ellen is a fine example of the pathway here at Loughborough working extremely well.
“She shone for BUCS 2 and then BUCS 1 and took her chances in the Allianz Cup when given the chance. Ellen continued working hard at her game and deserved a chance in the Premiership and she grabbed it with both hands.
“Ellen had a good first season with us, now we’re excited to see her kick on again and develop her game further with us during the 2024/25 season and beyond.”
With thanks to Loughborough Lightning
