Loughborough Lightning can today announce that USA international Alev Kelter has re-signed with the African Violets for the upcoming 2026/27 JAECOO PWR Season.
No player beat more defenders (108) or made more carries over the gain-line (123) in the 25/26 PWR season than Kelter, with the game-breaking centre scoring seven tries for Lightning, and she will look to continue that form into a brand-new term with Loughborough – that starts with a home match against Trailfinders at DPD Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens on Friday 20 November (kick-off: 7.30pm) – tickets are available by clicking HERE.
“I’m really excited to re-sign with Lightning,” said Kelter. “I’m looking forward to continuing to help push the threshold of competition with a huge focus on starting the season strong and consistently building each game.
“Loughborough Lightning represent everything I admire in a high-performance rugby programme: speed, physicality, ambition, and consistency. As one of the leading teams in JAECOO PWR, we have a desire to set a benchmark of excellence for the league.”
Kelter made a try-scoring debut for Lightning against Leicester Tigers in November 2024, having joined after earning a bronze medal with the USA in her third Olympic Games. Her Sevens prowess made her the first American and the fifth player in World Rugby Sevens Series history to score more than 1,000 points.
The powerful centre – who is also a capable winger and back row option – has participated in three Olympic Games and three Rugby World Cups for the USA, with 48 and 40 caps to her name in each discipline, respectively.
During her two seasons in an African Violet shirt, Kelter has made 27 appearances, scoring an impressive 14 tries and was named in the 2024/25 PWR Team of the Season.
“Alev is a world-class player, and we’re extremely pleased that she’s decided to remain with Lightning,” said Head Coach Nathan Smith.
“She has the ability to break the game open and create opportunities that not many other players can do, and to have that presence on the pitch is unique to the league.
“Not only can she do special things on the pitch, but she is also a diligent and professional person and a great character and role model for younger members of our squad.”
Loughborough Lightning can confirm that Chloe Daniels will not be joining the Club ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The Canada international was announced amongst Lightning’s new signings, but subsequently suffered a major knee injury, and by mutual agreement, it was decided that the best course of action would be for the player to remain in Canada to continue her rehabilitation.
Lightning wish Chloe all the very best on her rehabilitation and all the very best in her rugby career moving forward.