‘It’s a very real possibility’: USA international sets PWR goal after re-signing with Loughborough

USA Women’s Eagles hooker Kathryn Treder has signed a contract that will see her represent Loughborough Lightning for a fourth season.

The 30-year-old arrived in the East Midlands in 2023 after a stint with Darlington Mowden Park. Since first pulling on African Violet, Treder has scored 24 tries in 43 appearances.

Upon resigning for the cinch Stadium @ Franklin’s Gardens club, Treder has stated that a play-off rugby spot is within the club’s reach in the 2026/27 JAECOO Premiership Women’s Rugby season.

Treder said: “My personal goals for this season are just to see this side make the top four; it’s been our ambition for a long time, and it’s a very real possibility.”

Last year Lightning started the season strongly before they faded to a sixth-place finish. Seven points adrift of fourth-place Trailfinders Women – who ended the season as runners-up to Saracens in the Twickenham Stoop final – the East Midlanders know that they can compete with the league’s top clubs.

With the objective of clearing that final hurdle, the club have also re-signed Helena Rowland, Sadia Kabeya, Daisy Hibbert-Jones, Carmela Morrall, Megan Davey, Mae Sagapolu, Keevy Fitzpatrick and Amelia Williams.

“My main reason for re-signing is just the love for this club,” Treder said. “I feel Loughborough has become a second home for me.

“The fans and the atmosphere that they create at Franklin’s Gardens is special, and it’s something I want to stick around for.

“I’m incredibly proud of the efforts of the group in the 2025/26 season. I don’t think where we finished in the table is a true reflection of the efforts and the talent of the squad.

“Last year has made me really excited for this upcoming season. I feel we’re on the precipice of something really awesome, and many of our performances last year reflected that.”

In the 2025/26 season, Treder racked up a further 16 appearances for Loughborough and scored five tries. Last year the 30-year-old represented the USA at a second Women’s Rugby World Cup as the Eagles exited the competition at the group stage after fixtures against England, Australia and Samoa.

Nathan Smith, Loughborough Lightning head coach, said: “When I joined the club, Kathryn was the first player that I personally signed for Lightning, so I am pleased she has decided to commit her future to the side.

“She brings an excellent level of precision with her lineout throwing, as well as a mature head and level of experience that she brings to the side as a seasoned international campaigner.

“We are fortunate to be in a position where the hooker position is one of great strength and depth at Lightning, and they each push each other to improve and perform on the pitch.”