Super Rugby Women: Western Force veteran Kendra Fall announces retirement as squad departures announced

Western Force have confirmed the departure of several players, including veteran scrum-half Kendra Fell, ahead of the upcoming Super Rugby Women’s season. Fell is one of 13 players who will not be re-joining the Force next season, with the 30 year-old opting to retire after 15 appearances across multiple campaigns. She was part of the Force’s inaugural starting 15 back in 2018, scoring five conversions in an 85-13 win over the Melbourne Rebels, although she will continue to play for Palmyra at Premier Grade level. Fell said she felt it was the right time to hang up the boots as she pursues a career in early childhood teaching. “I wasn’t sure when the right time to step away would be, but this timing felt clear with the hours required to fully commit,” she said. “I felt it was time to focus on my family life and career and I feel at peace with that. “I’m excited about where the program is progressing and what (head coach) Dylan (Parsons) and the Force have done for the women’s program. I’m grateful and proud to have been part of the evolution of women’s rugby at the Force.” Force women’s head coach Dylan Parsons said Fell was immensely respected by both players and staff alike. “She’s someone we want to see in the future around the club and the group, staying connected and down the track supporting her with coaching opportunities,” he said. The Force’s 2025 Super W squad currently contains 22 publicly announced players, but have confirmed the exits of Natsuki Kashiwagi (11 caps, 2023-2024), Katie Barnes (16 caps, 2018-2024), Saelua Leaula (8 caps, 2023-2024), and Ariana Ruru-Hinaki (2 caps, 2022-2024). “We thank all these women for their service. Katie has been with the Force since the start and we wish her all the best in her move overseas,” Parsons said. “Natsuki has a big year ahead with personal milestones and Japanese club commitments, so she leaves with our warm wishes. “Likewise Saelua and Ariana have been loyal over a couple of years to the Force and we wish them well with what’s next.” Sara Cline, Seneti Kilisimasi, Hinata Komaki, Siutiti Ma’ake, Renae Nona, Harono Te Iringa, Alanis Toia and Numi Tupaea will all not return for next season, while Emilya Byrne (knee), Zoe Gillard (pregnancy), Keira MacAskill (shoulder), Rosie McGehan (knee), Dallys Tini (knee) and Aiysha Wigley (knee) will all miss the 2025 season but remain around the squad.