Loughborough Lightning have signed USA international hooker Paige Stathopoulos as injury cover.
The 32-year-old has 18 caps for the Eagles after debuting in 2023, and has Premiership Women’s Rugby experience at Trailfinders Women, having joined on a short-term deal in December 2024 ahead of the Rugby World Cup.
Stathopoulos featured in all three of the USA’s pool stage games, coming on as a replacement each time in place of her new Lightning club-mate, Kathryn Treder.
Lightning’s options at hooker have been hit by Lucy Calladine suffering a serious knee injury that will rule her out for the rest of the 2025/26 campaign. Scotland international Elis Martin continues her rehabilitation from knee surgery she underwent following the World Cup.
“I am pleased to bring in a player with international experience who also knows what this league is all about and what it requires,” said Lightning head coach Nathan Smith.
“It’s a great opportunity for Paige to return to playing in PWR and her fellow Americans here at Lightning spoke highly of her. We’re glad to have Paige in the environment.”
The injury suffered by England U20 international Calladine came during what has been a breakthrough season for the 20-year-old, who has featured in ten games so far this term – including four PWR starts – scoring seven tries along the way.
“We’re gutted for Lucy to pick up this kind of injury, especially with the kind of season she’s had so far,” said Smith. “Lucy has made huge strides as a rugby player and I know she will tackle her rehabilitation head on, with the support of the Club, and come back better and stronger than ever.”
Scantlebury leaves Lightning following relocation
Lightning can also confirm that Ellen Scantlebury has left the Club with immediate effect, following her relocation out of the region.
The winger/centre made 22 appearances following her debut in 2023 against Harlequins, scoring seven tries.
“I’d like to thank Ellen for her contribution to Lightning and the programme here at Loughborough, and wish her well for the future,” said Smith.