Fort Bragg soldier helps Army rugby win third straight title
This Fort Bragg soldier works with the Army's Golden Knights, serves as a local paramedic and recently reached another major milestone.
On July 31-Aug. 3, the All-Army Women’s Rugby team, led by Staff Sgt. Katie Leadbetter, claimed its third consecutive victory at the 2026 Women’s Armed Forces Sevens Championship in Annapolis, Maryland, overcoming a heavy downpour during their championship game against the Navy. Despite the challenging conditions, the Army rugby team edged out the Navy 22-17, scoring the winning try in the final minute.
Leadbetter emphasized the team’s unity and mutual respect as key factors in their success. Rugby has always had a strong pull on Leadbetter, who grew up trying various sports before discovering rugby at the age of 16. After years of playing, she returned to rugby in 2021 and eventually joined the All-Army team, which has become the sport she loves most.
Leadbetter balances her career as a medic with the Army’s Golden Knights parachute team, her role as a part-time paramedic with Cumberland County EMS, and her commitment to the rugby team. Despite her busy life, she finds fulfillment in both her professional responsibilities and her passion for rugby.
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