Powerful USA prop Keia Mae Sagapolu Sanele has joined Loughborough Lightning from local rivals Leicester Tigers.
The 25-year-old from Tacoma, Washington, made her senior international debut in March 2023 against Spain and has moved onto 18 caps during the recent Pacific Four Series.
Sagapolu didn’t play rugby until the age of 18 before progressing her career at Central Washington University. She went on to achieve All-American honours in 2022 and 2023 and then represented USA U23s, before entering the senior Eagles set-up.
A move to Premiership Women’s Rugby in 2023 followed ahead of Tigers’ inaugural season in the competition, where she made 12 appearances before an injury setback saw her limited to just five games in the 2024/25 campaign.
“After a really positive experience with Leicester Tigers, where I developed both on and off the field, I felt ready for a new challenge,” said Sagapolu. “Loughborough Lightning stood out as the right fit, it’s a highly competitive environment with top-level coaching and a strong culture, and I’m excited to keep pushing myself and growing as a player.
“From afar, Loughborough Lightning has always looked like a well-organised, high-performing side with a strong identity. They play with real intent and discipline, and it’s clear there’s a great culture behind the scenes.
“I’ve definitely had some tough matches against Lightning, those games always stood out because of how competitive and physical they were. You knew you had to be at your best to match their intensity!”
Keia Mae Sagapolu Sanele
Sagapolu was a starter in Tigers’ first game at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens in February 2024, when the visitors clamed a 17-22 victory in front of a crowd of more than 1,700 people. She is looking forward to lining up for the home side in games at the venue in the months ahead.
“It’s a fantastic venue with an incredible atmosphere, and I’ve always enjoyed the energy from the fans when playing there,” she said. “Now, to be on the other side, representing the team, and sharing the pitch with such talented team-mates is something I’m really excited about. I can’t wait to experience the camaraderie and to create some great memories together in front of the fans.”
Sagapolu’s arrival follows recent Lightning announcements that the likes of Bulou Mataitgoa, Krissy Scurfield, Sadia Kabeya, Lilli Ives Campion and Bo Westcombe-Evans have extended their contracts into the 2025/26 season.
Head coach Smith said: “Keia possesses so much power when she runs with the ball, it is frightening. Her carrying is devastating.
“She has got huge growth within her game and has a huge ceiling. Keia is the type of player I want to sign at Lightning, as we have the coaching and the resource to really double down on areas of her game that require improvement, so that can really make improvements and kick on with her career.
“I’m really excited to be working with her and look forward to seeing how far her game can progress.”
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