Alev Kelter signs extended Loughborough Lightning contract

Loughborough Lightning are delighted to announce that Alev Kelter has signed a contract extension heading into the 2025/26 Premiership Women’s Rugby season.

Kelter made a try-scoring debut for Lightning against Leicester Tigers in November 2024 and would go on to cross the line seven times in 11 matches.

She beat 62 defenders during the 2024/25 season, which was bettered by only one PWR player, and was named in the league’s Dream Team along with team-mate, Krissy Scurfield, who has also signed a contract extension.

The 34-year-old arrived in Loughborough in the Autumn of 2024, having earned a bronze medal with USA in her third Olympic Games. Her Sevens prowess saw her become the first American and fifth player in World Rugby Sevens Series history to score more than 1,000 points. 

Kelter has moved to 29 caps in 15-a-side for USA, and is on course to compete in a third Rugby World Cup later this year when the Eagles take on host nation England in the tournament’s opening game at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light on Friday 22 August. 

“It’s an absolute honour to re-sign with Lightning for a second season,” said Kelter. “We showed glimpses of our potential as a squad and it’s a privilege to have another opportunity to push for a top-four spot. I’m grateful to be surrounded by world-class players and coaches whose patience and guidance continue to raise the bar of high performance.

“This is a massive year for women’s rugby as the Rugby World Cup in England is approaching! I’m looking forward to the unreal atmosphere of sold-out stadiums and support from family and friends.

“Let’s keep that momentum rolling into the PWR and fill cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens to kick off this upcoming season!”

Kelter’s contract renewal follows announcements earlier this week that Kathryn Treder and Bulou Mataitoga have extended their deals and fellow USA internationals Tahlia Brody and Keia Mae Sagapolu Sanele have joined from Leicester Tigers. 

“Pound for pound, she is probably the most powerful player in women’s rugby. I have not seen anything like her, and I do not think the PWR had for a few years until she came back to the league with us. 

“We are extremely happy to regain her services. Not only has she been great on the field, she is great off the field with her behaviours and diligence, especially in training and in the gym. I hope the younger girls are learning from her professional behaviours as well.

“If we are going to be involved in this league, we need to have world class players within the team. They have to exhibit their behaviours that student athletes and age grade internationals should be following and she certainly fits into that category.”

Loughborough Lightning 2025/26 Season Tickets are available priced from £55*/£15*, please click HERE for more information!