Sachiko Katoh

Even before she arrived at Sandy Park, Exeter Chiefs head coach Susie Appleby was singing the praises of her new Japanese prop.

Now, well into her first season with the English club, Sachiko has not disappointed producing a string of top-class performances for the Devon club,

Deceptively strong, a big ball-carrier and a player who quietly goes about her on-field job, her all-round game has been clear to see as she has helped the Chiefs claim some notable scalps in the division, including the likes of Saracens and Wasps.

Sachiko started playing rugby at 10-years-old, alongside her brother, before committing fully to rugby just a few years later. She made her international debut against Hong Kong when she was 17 years old, before moving to Tokyo a year later to attend college.

She has also previously played softball and competed in judo.

With a 97% tackle success ration from 174 hits, in 15 Premier 15s matches, Sachiko was voted in to the Allianz #Premier15s Team of the season for 2020/21.

Player Bio – with thanks to Exeter Chiefs.