‘Lightning Original’ Rachel Malcolm to leave Loughborough after 8 years

Loughborough Lightning has today announced that flanker Rachel Malcolm will depart the Club at the end of the 2024/25 season.

A ‘Lightning Original’, the 33-year-old was on the pitch for Loughborough’s very first game against Worcester Valkyries in the inaugural season of Premiership Women’s Rugby (then the Premier 15s) in September 2017, and is the longest-serving current squad member.

The Scotland captain has made 67 appearances for the club over eight seasons, with her final outing due to come against Trailfinders Women at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens on Friday 21st February.

‘This Energy Never Stops’ – Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025

‘This Energy Never Stops’ – Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025

Malcolm told the club website: “It’s been an absolute wild ride. Being associated with Loughborough, it’s sporting royalty. It’s a place you want to be as an athlete and I think as a result, we attract some top-quality players. I’ve had the opportunity to play alongside some of the best and most-experienced players in the women’s game.

 

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“I truly walk away from this programme knowing that I’ve given it every single ounce of my blood sweat and tears that I have available, and I truly feel so excited about the future of the Club, and the people within it, and what they have the ability to go and achieve.”

Lightning have had a mixed season and missed out on a play-off spot, currently sitting in 6th place in the PWR table with their final game of the season against Trailfinders Women this Friday evening.