As the curtains draw on Ellie Kildunne's illustrious tenure with Harlequins at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season, the rugby world pauses to reflect on her transformative impact both on and off the field. Having adorned the Harlequins jersey for five seasons, Kildunne's journey has been nothing short of spectacular, marked by 60 appearances and an impressive tally of 52 tries. Her prowess saw her ascend to the pinnacle of the sport, clinching the World Player of the Year award, triumphing at the Rugby World Cup with the Red Roses, and securing a runner-up spot at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025.
The resonance of Kildunne's influence reverberates far beyond the try lines; she has been a beacon for the women's game, bringing it to new audiences and inspiring countless young women to embrace rugby. "Ellie has helped inspire a generation of female players; some of whom are now coming through our Pathway and we are confident the future of Harlequins Women is bright," remarked Laurie Dalrymple, Harlequins CEO. He expressed profound gratitude for her contributions, wishing her all the best in her future endeavors.
Head Coach Ross Chisholm shared his sentiments, reflecting on the joy of witnessing Kildunne's evolution as a player.
"Ellie has been an important part of our squad over the last few seasons. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with her and seeing her put in performances for both Harlequins and the Red Roses. I look forward to seeing her continue to develop as a player and we all wish her every success for the future."
The announcement of Kildunne's departure follows closely on the heels of unsettling news from the club, with former Quins star Mike Brown voicing his estrangement. Amidst a challenging season for both the men's and women's teams, Kildunne's exit adds a poignant note to the club's narrative.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Kildunne expressed her mixed emotions: "After five years at Quins, it's hard to put into words how much this place has meant to me. I’ve shared so many moments here – on the field, in the changing room, and with friendships that will stay with me long after I leave. I’ve always tried to be the best player I can be, giving everything I have every time I step onto the pitch. For me, that’s always been about being in the right environment – one where I can be unapologetically myself and work with those who truly value each individual and what they bring to the team. I’m incredibly grateful to the supporters and my teammates who’ve inspired me to play the rugby I love. Things may not always be in our control, and I’m gutted to be leaving, I wish everyone at Quins the best for what’s next, see you on the pitch cowboys x."
While the next chapter in Kildunne's career remains unannounced, the rugby community eagerly anticipates her next move, confident that her legacy at Harlequins will continue to inspire future generations.
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As the curtains draw on Ellie Kildunne's illustrious tenure with Harlequins at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season, the rugby world pauses to reflect on her transformative impact both on and off the field. Having adorned the Harlequins jersey for five seasons, Kildunne's journey has been nothing short of spectacular, marked by 60 appearances and an impressive tally of 52 tries. Her prowess saw her ascend to the pinnacle of the sport, clinching the World Player of the Year award, triumphing at the Rugby World Cup with the Red Roses, and securing a runner-up spot at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025.
The resonance of Kildunne's influence reverberates far beyond the try lines; she has been a beacon for the women's game, bringing it to new audiences and inspiring countless young women to embrace rugby. "Ellie has helped inspire a generation of female players; some of whom are now coming through our Pathway and we are confident the future of Harlequins Women is bright," remarked Laurie Dalrymple, Harlequins CEO. He expressed profound gratitude for her contributions, wishing her all the best in her future endeavors.
Head Coach Ross Chisholm shared his sentiments, reflecting on the joy of witnessing Kildunne's evolution as a player.
"Ellie has been an important part of our squad over the last few seasons. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with her and seeing her put in performances for both Harlequins and the Red Roses. I look forward to seeing her continue to develop as a player and we all wish her every success for the future."
The announcement of Kildunne's departure follows closely on the heels of unsettling news from the club, with former Quins star Mike Brown voicing his estrangement. Amidst a challenging season for both the men's and women's teams, Kildunne's exit adds a poignant note to the club's narrative.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Kildunne expressed her mixed emotions: "After five years at Quins, it's hard to put into words how much this place has meant to me. I’ve shared so many moments here – on the field, in the changing room, and with friendships that will stay with me long after I leave. I’ve always tried to be the best player I can be, giving everything I have every time I step onto the pitch. For me, that’s always been about being in the right environment – one where I can be unapologetically myself and work with those who truly value each individual and what they bring to the team. I’m incredibly grateful to the supporters and my teammates who’ve inspired me to play the rugby I love. Things may not always be in our control, and I’m gutted to be leaving, I wish everyone at Quins the best for what’s next, see you on the pitch cowboys x."
While the next chapter in Kildunne's career remains unannounced, the rugby community eagerly anticipates her next move, confident that her legacy at Harlequins will continue to inspire future generations.