Smith given chance to concentrate on rugby career

Young lock Kate Smith will get the opportunity to concentrate on her rugby career after being offered a new contract with Exeter Chiefs Women.

The 23-year-old has completed her master’s in human geography at the University of Exeter and is now free to give more time to training.

Smith made her debut for the club against Warriors Women in the first game of the 2023/24 season and has added five more appearances since then, include her PWR debut against Sale Sharks in November.

She said: “I am thrilled to have re-signed with Chiefs. In the last two years, I have loved the professional environment that both the Chiefs and Exeter University have offered me, the friends I have made and the lifestyle the area has provided. Needless to say, I am excited to continue my development here!”

Smith started playing rugby with the boys at her local club Gateshead where she was coached by her dad. She moved to Ryton RUFC when she was 13 to play for a girls’ team. She then made the move from DMP Sharks to Exeter Chiefs after representing DMP for three seasons.

Interim head coach Steve Salvin said: “Kate has been part of our squad for two seasons now while being a part of the university’s BUCS team. This contract will give Kate the freedom to make that next step into professional rugby and kick on in the PWR. We are glad we have been able to give her this opportunity.”