Canada international Abby Duguid has agreed a new deal to extend her second spell with Loughborough Lightning into the 2024/25 season.
Second row Duguid made her Lightning debut against Worcester in November 2020 before leaving to return home and play club rugby for Nor’Westers Athletic Association.
The 26-year-old returned ahead of the 2023/24 campaign and moved to 41 appearances for the African Violets and to three tries.
“Choosing to come back to the league after a year off was a tough decision but knowing that it would be with Lightning made it easier,” she said. “Knowing the girls were there and then Nathan (Smith) coming in to coach was a big part of solidifying that choice. Then having a season like we did only emphasised how much I want to be apart of this team and help push it to be in the top four.
“Our on and off field connection has improved in that last year as we continue to promote building a cohesive group. The girls and staff are committed to the process and it’s showing.”
Abby Duguid
“I want to keep improving my own game by being pushed by the best, I know Lightning will be able to give that to me. We have our goals set high for the next season and I’m excited to get there with the girls no matter how tough. Everyone is looking forward and that’s the best place for us right now.”
Duguid adds to a growing list of international players who have committed their futures to Lightning, with Red Roses stars Emily Scarratt, Sadia Kabeya and Cath O’Donnell penning new deals along with the Scottish quarter of Rachel Malcolm, Emma Wassell, Helen Nelson and Christine Belisle. USA Eagles Kathryn Treder and Bulou Mataitoga will also be pulling on an African Violet shirt in 2024/25.
“It is great to have Abby on board,” said head coach Nathan Smith. “She has added great depth to the tighthead lock position. She has shown glimpses of what she can do this year but I am confident with her having a full pre-season with us that she will be able to use those strong performances as a springboard for a successful year for us.
“The lock competition at Loughborough is strong and we have some exceptional younger players coming through the pathway in that position. However, the competition will drive the quality of performance and I think that will only help in Abby’s continued development but also opportunities within the team.”
Loughborough Lightning season tickets for the 2024/24 Allianz Premiership Women’s Rugby season are available now priced from just £40* adults and £20* children. For more information, please click HERE.
