Loughborough confirm departure of senior international playmaker

Helen Nelson will leave Loughborough Lightning at the conclusion of the 2025/26 Premiership Women’s Rugby season.

The 31-year-old, who has primarily been utilised at fly-half by the East Midlands club and will finish a seven year stay at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens.

Nelson, who is Lightning’s fifth all-time appearance maker, has left to pursue a new playing opportunity. She is also the club’s fifth all-time points scorer, having registered 171 points in her 78 appearances.

“I have grown so much as both a player and a person off the pitch during my time with Lightning,” Nelson said.

“Just having the chance to play with some world?class players over the years, from literally all over the world, it really has been the most incredible experience.

“That has helped me stay around so long – it is such a great group of girls and a great coaching staff. They have always had a really strong, tight?knit team connection and had a lot of fun.

“Even in tough times, what has remained consistent is our ability to work hard for each other, to want to get better, but also to see the brighter side of things and put a positive spin on it.”

Nelson is the first departure announced by Loughborough. Sadia Kabeya, Helena Rowland, Daisy Hibbert-Jones, Carmela Morrall, Megan Davey, Mae Sagapolu and Keevy Fitzpatrick have all extended their stays with the club.

At this year’s Guinness Women’s Six Nations, Nelson captained Scotland in Tests against France and Scotland to conclude the Championship. Scotland placed fifth in their first tournament under Sione Fukofuka.

In addition to her playing commitments, Nelson has coached Loughborough University’s BUCS 1 and 2 sides. This year she helped the side end a 21-year wait for BUCS Super Rugby Final success as the side beat Brunel University 45-5 at Newport’s Rodney Parade.

Nathan Smith, Loughborough Lightning head coach, said: “It has been a genuine pleasure to work with Nelly during my time with Lightning. She is a great player to coach and has been such a key member of the squad for such a long period of time.

“She has been such a positive influence on the environment, and she has had a big impact on younger players too. I wish her well with the next step of her career.”