Globetrotter Treder reflects on amazing May and ‘insane’ season

California, Waikato, Melbourne and London; Kathryn Treder’s last four games of rugby have taken four countries, three continents and two hemispheres.

The Loughborough Lightning hooker added to her international caps during the recent Pacific Four Series that saw the USA Eagles lose on home territory to Canada and away at reigning World Champions New Zealand before securing a thrilling win in Australia.

In that showdown with the Wallaroos, Treder got over the line in the first half but USA trailed by 12 points at the break. However the away side - who also featured Lightning players Bulou Mataitoga and Hallie Taufoou in their starting line-up - rallied in the second period to secure a memorable 32-25 victory.

“There was a lot of travelling, I am not sure why it was so spread out and there was a lot of travelling but also a lot of good bonding time,” said the 21-times capped USA forward. “We have had a new coach since the start of this year and we didn't have a lot of time with him leading up to the World Cup, so it has been like trying to drink out of a fire hose. 

“Just getting a lot of information and stalling then having to perform. So it has been a little bit stressful. Honestly having that comeback win against Australia I think really ignited a fire within us all and gave us a lot of belief in what we are capable of.”

Treder’s world tour was complete as she landed back in England last week ahead of a trip to London to take on Trailfinders Women. The 28-year-old dusted off any jetlag from her global exertions by scoring two tries in the 19-18 victory that secured Lightning a fifth-place finish heading into this Sunday’s final match of the season against Saracens at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens on Sunday (kick-off: 3pm).

It took her try tally in club colours to a remarkable 11 in her first season since joining from DMP Sharks last summer.

“I have never had a season like this in terms of tries, not even close to it!,” she said. “I think I am in double digits for just maul tries alone. It has been really insane.”

Treder has one more chance to add to her impressive tally against Saracens as Lightning seek to claim a first victory over a top-four team this term.

“We are talking about finishing on a high note," she said. “With some of the top-four teams we have been really close and I think we want to gun for that win, to know that we are capable of that because I do believe we are.”