Three-time World Cup veteran Kate Zackary to leave Trailfinders after PWR Final

Kate Zackary, a three-time Women’s Rugby World Cup representative for the USA, will leave Trailfinders Women at the end of this season, with Sunday’s Premiership Women’s Rugby Final against Saracens at the Twickenham Stoop set to be her last appearance for the club.

The 37-year-old back-row has spent three seasons in West London after joining from Exeter Chiefs, where she had played for three years. Head coach Barney Maddison described her as a cornerstone of the club’s development since its earliest days in the competition.

“Kate has been outstanding for this club,” Maddison said. “As one of the players who has been here since day one, she has played a huge role in the journey of this team and helped lay the foundations for what we have become. She is a natural leader whose standards, professionalism and commitment have had a positive impact on everyone around her.”

Zackary has been a consistent performer throughout the current campaign, scoring three tries, making 92 carries and registering nine dominant tackles. She played the full 80 minutes in Trailfinders’ 29-26 semi-final victory over Gloucester Hartpury.

In a message to supporters, Zackary reflected warmly on her time in London. “London wasn’t my first choice when the time came, but it’s become a favourite of mine, and a second home away from home for me,” she said. “Coming out in droves, no matter the weather, no matter the travel, so thank you again.”

Sunday’s final presents Zackary with the chance to end her Trailfinders career with a title, though the task is a significant one — the club has yet to record a win against Saracens. Maddison added that she “leaves having made a lasting mark on this club.”