Loughborough Lightning forward Hallie Taufoou will play her final game for the Club this evening against Trailfinders.
The versatile lock/back row became the 100th player to represent Lightning when she made her debut against Wasps in January 2022 and made 11 appearances in her first spell.
Taufoou returned to Loughborough entering the 2023/24 season and has moved to 35 appearances, becoming a mainstay in head coach Nathan Smith’s pack missing just two Premiership Women’s Rugby game this season.
The USA international will continue her rugby journey at Denver Onyx in the inaugural Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) season, which gets underway in March.
“I credit Loughborough with pretty much everything I know about rugby,” said Taufoou. “Before joining Lightning I just relied on my athleticism, I didn’t fully understand 15s. I played Sevens, played some 15s at university and a spell at Richmond in London. Then I came here and people taught me so much, but they also allowed me to be myself too.
“Loughborough will always have a special place in my heart, I’ve loved it here.”
Hallie Taufoou
“I’ve really enjoyed this season. I feel like I am currently at the top of my game and I have more to give. However, this chapter is closing and I feel it is time for something different.
“I am grateful for the support Lightning get across the country and especially at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens. I am glad that is where my time with the Club is coming to an end.”
Taufoou made her senior USA international debut in November 2021 against Canada and participated in the delayed 2021 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand. She remains a regular in the side and has 23 caps to her name.
“First and foremost, Hallie is a great person who has been fantastic for our environment here at Loughborough Lightning,” said Smith.
“She has improved hugely as a player over her time with Lightning and that has been reflected in the volume of rugby she has played for us this season.
“Hallie is an underrated player, is as hardworking as they come and is a great footballer. We wish her all the best for the future.”
Tickets are available for tonight’s game priced from £7.50* adult and £3* juniors by clicking HERE.
