McGillivray to combine physiotherapy studies with new Chiefs contract

Exeter Chiefs Women’s centre Nancy McGillivray will be combining training to become a physiotherapist with work on the pitch after signing a new contract with the club.

The 22-year-old returned to rugby last season following a year out with a serious knee injury and played in every game following her try-scoring comeback against Leicester Tigers.

Having worked her way through the University of Exeter’s rugby pathway while studying for her degree in sport and exercise science, McGillivray is now turning her attention to a masters in physiotherapy from the University of Plymouth.

McGillivray said: “I’m excited to be staying with Exeter Chiefs for another season. It’ll be my fifth year with the team, and I truly love this group; I couldn’t be happier to call this club my home. My hopes for next season are to continue growing together, enjoying our rugby, and pushing for something special.”

Closing in on her 50th game for the club, McGillivray made her debut against Loughborough Lightning in November 2021 and has made 47 appearances since then, scoring eight tries in the process.

Exeter Chiefs Women’s interim head coach Steve Salvin said: “Nancy’s battle to get back on the pitch after a year out was admirable and speaks volumes for the player and person she is. We are happy to support Nancy’s further education while watching her game develop even further on the pitch.”