Maleah Welton
Hometown: New Annan, PE
Position: Fullback
Club: PEI U17
Potential Program: Social work
Becca Baker has found the Tommies new fullback for the 2023-24 season - going across the Confederation bridge for the Tommies' first out of province of the 2023 class. Maleah Welton, a multi-sport star, has chosen to pursue rugby at the next level and will wear suit up for the green and gold while doing it next season.
Welton, from New Annan, PE, has thrived in more than just rugby. She's a decorated soccer, basketball and lacrosse player, winning her high school's Most Dedicated Player in soccer and Most Improved Player in basketball. She also has two provincial championships under her belt - one in rugby and another in basketball. Provincially, she's earned the Soccer PEI Lowell Stewart memorial award and played for the PEI U17 rugby team and lacrosse team. She said she chose STU because of the location and having family close by, as well as the programs.
“I chose STU because of the beautiful location of Fredericton with family living close by. As well as the amazing opportunity to explore my different choices in the Bachelor of Arts. Having time to choose what I want to major in is a huge pro as I am not set on anything, and I want to explore my options," Welton said.
Tommies' head coach Becca Baker said Welton is an all-around athlete that will slot into the fullback position role.
"Maleah is going to be a strong addition to the Tommies next season. She has proven herself to be an all-around, adaptable athlete. Her previous coaches describe her as go-getter, a reliable athlete who constantly strives to meet team and personal goals," Baker said. "Unfortunately, we are losing Sarah Hetherington this spring – last year’s MVP and four-year starting fullback. We are confident that Maleah has the game knowledge, skill, and athleticism to step into the role."
Welton describes herself as a hard working and committed player who will always give it her all.
“The biggest strength that I think I will add to the STU Women’s rugby team is that I always commit and follow through," she said. "Whether that is my attendance or my tackles, I will work hard to do my best for the team”.