CHIEFS VS BEARS SUN 5 NOV I SANDY PARK I KO 15:00
PROUDLY SERVING THE TRADES & DIY CUSTOMERS SINCE 1770. WITH OVER 40 BRANCHES IN THE SOUTH WEST YOU’RE NEVER TOO FAR FROM YOUR LOCAL BRADFORDS.
Worcester Malvern
Ledbury Ross On Wye
Cinderford
Avonmouth Weston-Super-Mare
Trowbridge
Glastonbury Bridgwater Taunton Ilminster Willand
Bude
Honiton Exeter
Launceston
Moretonhampstead
Liskeard
Newton Abbot Plympton
Redruth Penryn Penzance
Helston
St Austell
Plymouth
Sidmouth Exmouth Dawlish Torquay
Evercreech
Martock
Sherborne Yeovil Verwood Crewkerne Blandford Axminster
Seaton
Bridport
Dorchester
Wareham
VS TONY ROWE...................................................5 ROB BAXTER..................................................7 CLUB NEWS............................................. 8-10 ETHAN ROOTS FEATURE........................... 14-17 SHOP.....................................................18-19 MEN'S MANAGEMENT TEAM..........................21 MEN’S SQUAD........................................23-28 TEAM LINE-UPS.....................................32-33 OPPOSITION...........................................35-37 FAST XV......................................................39 PREMIERSHIP RUGBY ROUND UP.................... 40 COMMUNITY NEWS...................................... 43 MATCH REPORT.....................................46-47
WOMEN’S FIXTURES.................................... 49 WOMEN'S MANAGEMENT TEAM......................50 WOMEN’S SQUAD...................................52-55 MATCH REPORT......................................56-57 WXV EXPLAINED...........................................59 FOUNDATION UPDATE....................................61 NEW SIGNING...............................................63 MEN’S FIXTURES..........................................65 TICKET INFORMATION...................................67 WHAT’S ON AT SANDY PARK..........................69 CLUB PARTNERS...........................................72
Chief Executive & Chairman: Tony Rowe CBE, Hon LLD
Stadium Operations Director: Mark Isaacs
Deputy Chief Executive: Keiron Northcott
Administration Director: Toni Percival
Directors: Rob Baxter OBE, Steve Byrne, Mark Champion, Karime Hassan MBE, Brian Lodge, Chris Over
Corporate Account Manager: Charlie Dunn
Managing Director: Natasha Pavis Sales & Marketing Director: Lisa Duncan Finance Director: Nicky Teague
Merchandise Manager: Emma Dingley
OFFICIAL EXETER CHIEFS @EXETERCHIEFS @OFFICIALEXETERCHIEFS
CONTACTING THE CLUB Exeter Rugby Club Ltd Sandy Park Stadium Sandy Park Way Exeter EX2 7NN
T: 01392 890 890 E: info@exeterchiefs.co.uk Ticket office hours: Monday - Friday 9.30am - 4.30pm Match days from noon Office hours: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5.30pm
match winners
michaelspiers.co.uk
WELCOME WELCOME EVERYONE TO SANDY PARK FOR WHAT PROMISES TO BE ANOTHER THRILLING GALLAGHER PREMIERSHIP FIXTURE AGAINST OUR NEAREST RIVALS, BRISTOL BEARS.
As everyone knows however, the Gallagher Premiership is a long competition and whilst our early form has been pleasing, consistency is one of the key words which Rob Baxter has used this week as we build towards today’s clash with Bristol Bears.
In light of our recent performances, there are some interesting statistics that have come to light which I would like to share. We can now celebrate over 12 months undefeated at home in all competitions, and the form of the team in front of our fans is nothing short of remarkable. This is now our longest unbeaten home run since our promotion to the Premiership, 19 victories in a row.
I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the players who took part in our Monday night friendly against Bristol. It was a wonderful opportunity to see the depth that is building across our squad, with some familiar names returning to the pitch after an extended break away with injuries as well as some youngsters enjoying their first runouts on the famous Sandy Park pitch.
Perhaps the most exciting element of our wins this season has been the freeflowing point scoring that our team have exhibited, running in tries from across the pitch to produce some incredibly score lines against top opposition.
The Bears have enjoyed an excellent start to the season themselves, and I look forward to what promises to be a fantastic encounter between two sides in good form.
We have scored 268 points in five home matches, averaging 53.6 points per game. Based on that stat, one could argue that our 43-0 victory over Sale Sharks was a dip in form, although of course, I say that with tongue in cheek.
Finally, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to the Bristol Bears Directors, staff, players and of course the fans who have travelled down the M5 to support their team.
With a number of important home fixtures to start the season, the support of our fans has been invaluable in helping to make Sandy Park such a difficult place for opposition to play, and I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported this young team across the opening rounds.
TONY ROWE CBE CHAIRMAN AND CEO EXETER RUGBY CLUB
5
GLOBAL PLAYERS
LOCAL PRESENCE.
Gallagher is one of the largest insurance and risk management companies in the world. We are committed to our local communities— just ask the businesses and organisations supported by our Exeter team. No matter your size, sector or game plan, we are on your side. Get in touch with us: CHERYL PHILLIPS, Managing Director - Exeter E: Cheryl_Phillips@ajg.com T: 01392 549 381
Find out how our local brokers can support your THE GALLAGHER WAY. SINCE 1927.
business at ajg.com/uk
Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: Spectrum Building, 7th Floor, 55 Blythswood Street, Glasgow, G2 7AT. Registered in Scotland. Company Number: SC108909. FP1160-2021 Exp 06.09.2022 | ARTUK-4318
ROB BAXTER OBE
SO, WE NOW APPROACH ROUND FOUR OF THIS SEASON’S PREMIERSHIP AND DUE TO THE REDUCED NUMBER OF TEAMS WE WILL BE CLOSE TO COMPLETING 25% OF OUR GAMES AFTER THIS WEEKEND, SO THE IMPORTANCE OF GETTING A GOOD START TO THE COMPETITION REALLY STARTS TO HIT HOME. I have to give all the players in the squad and the rugby staff a big “well done so far” as we have started the season in good form after what felt like a good pre-season and now the challenge is to work to maintain that form and the joy it brings for as long as possible. It hasn’t been completely smooth sailing so far, failing to get a point in the game at Harlequins when so many things showed us we could have won was tough, and yet it also reaffirmed that we are heading in the right direction with how we want to play and how the players are learning and growing individually and collectively.
Bristol Bears. It gave us a chance to play the whole squad across the weekend and again a lot of players had good games and had some valuable time. Some players were returning from injury while others have been in and out of the first team squad across the early games of the season, so to have them all playing rugby is great and something we will hopefully continue in the future. Finally I would like to welcome Pat Lam, his staff, players and the supporters of Bristol here to Sandy Park today.
That was shown last week against Sale when not only did we get a few things around the contact area that bit sharper and more focused, but we also converted most of our chances. On top of that we produced a display of huge physical intensity which seemed to shock Sale in the early part of the game and we never really let them recover. We also, at the moment, have the safety net of a good, strong set piece which isn’t allowing opposition teams to get easy ins into the game and is also helping us take territory and create longer periods of pressure. It was a real highlight for everyone in the playing group when we scored the penalty try from a scrum because everyone knows how hard the forwards have worked with Ross McMillan, our new scrum coach, so far this season to improve our scrum. I also need to mention Monday evening when a really good Monday night crowd supported a second team game here at Sandy Park against
ROB BAXTER OBE DIRECTOR OF RUGBY 7
CLUB NEWS TWO PLAYERS SELECTED IN RPA MVP OF THE MONTH VOTE The RPA has announced the return of the ’15 Under 23’ monthly vote for the 2023/24 Gallagher Premiership and Premiership Women’s Rugby seasons. The main purpose of the vote is to put a spotlight on young players in the league excelling. Each month, four players will be selected for their impressive performances for both club and country. For October, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Danielle Preece have been shortlisted. Congratulations to both for this nomination and for their stellar performances throughout the beginning of their respective seasons.
BIG NAMES RETURN IN FRIENDLY WIN OVER BRISTOL Under pitch black skies full of rain, Chiefs welcomed Bristol Bears to Sandy Park on Monday evening for a first A-Game friendly of the 2023/24 season. Inspired by the determination and energy of the Chiefs team of last Saturday afternoon, the Exeter men led the scoreboard from the second minute and never relinquished their hold. Leading 10-6 at half-time, despite an unfortunate yellow card to full-back Dan John, the Chiefs went on to secure a 29-11 home win. It was a game
8
centred around development and match fitness for a number of notable injury returnees – including Ollie Devoto, Olly Woodburn and Eoin O’Connor – and each player involved gave everything to their minutes. Tries were scored by Max Norey, Ross Vintcent, Patrick Schickerling on a brace and Devoto with two of those tries converted by Louis Sinclair.
9
CLUB NEWS TWO CHIEFS PLAYERS SHORTLISTED FOR GALLAGHER POTM There are two Chiefs named in the four-man shortlist for Gallagher’s October Player of the Month.
back has a total of two tries, 24 conversions and one penalty on his scoresheet across both competitions as well.
Veteran centre Henry Slade and young back row Greg Fisilau have both impressed the nominating panel who have shortlisted them alongside Bath Rugby scrum-half Ben Spencer and Gloucester back-row Zach Mercer.
Fisilau is one of a number of youngsters Rob Baxter has vying for selection in the back row this season. Featuring in three games in this season’s new look Cup competition, Fisilau has also garnered attention in his three starts in the Premiership. Scoring three tries across the Cup and league will not have dented his selection chances either.
Slade has been a Chief since 2012, now with over 200 appearances to his name. This season he has featured in three Premiership Rugby Cup matches and all three Premiership opening rounds. The
11
Loyal supporters of local businesses and communities for over 90 years, we help our clients face the future with greater confidence.
THE GALLAGHER WAY. SINCE 1927.
Find out how our local brokers can support your business at ajg.com/uk
Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: Spectrum Building, 55, Blythswood Street, Glasgow, G2 7AT. Registered in Scotland. Company Number: SC108909. FP900-2022a Exp 15.06.2023 | ARTEMEA-6028
POSITION: BACK-ROW HEIGHT: 1.89M (6FT 2IN) WEIGHT: 110KG (17ST 3LBS)
THE SUMMER SIGNING, WHO HAS REALISED A LIFE-LONG DREAM OF PLAYING IN THE PREMIERSHIP, IS READY TO MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY OPPORTUNITY AFFORDED TO HIM IN A CHIEFS SHIRT.
14
The back-rower from New Zealand progressed through the junior ranks of East Coast Bays into the North Harbour squad in the Mitre 10 Cup competition. After spending a season around the tutelage of barnstorming southern-hemisphere internationalists at Crusaders, Roots took up a chance in the northernhemisphere with United Rugby Championship [URC] side, Ospreys. Arriving in Wales in March 2021, the plan was originally to spend a short spell there but having enjoyed the environment, Roots stayed in he region on a two-year deal. However, the draw of the Premiership was always in his mind, so when Rob Baxter and a new base in Devon called, he took the leap. He said: “The Premiership is a well-known competition back home – known for being tough physically, mentally and emotionally – so I wanted to come throw my hand up and see how well I could do. I feel like the game style here is more suited to me, as I wanted to test myself in more of a tough, physical slog.”
I FEEL LIKE THE GAME STYLE HERE IS MORE SUITED TO ME, AS I WANTED TO TEST MYSELF IN MORE OF A TOUGH, PHYSICAL SLOG 15
The 25-year-old – who battled with Jac Morgan, Justin Tipuric and Dan Lydiate for game-time at Ospreys – finds himself immersed in a Chiefs back row which is thriving with talent. With few established names this season, it is the emerging talent of youth that is the main competition as Roots vies for selection amongst the likes of Greg Fisilau, Ross Vintcent and Lewis Pearson.
“Honestly, I don’t think anyone saw that coming – not even us internally, in the group. I couldn’t have asked for a better Premiership debut. Against the reigning champions – a side who many people would say are the best team in England – and we go out there and put 50-odd points on them. And I get a try, which doesn’t happen all that often for me anyway, so it was the dream result.”
“100% I think the constant competition makes you thrive. Coming here, everyone is on an even playing field because all of those ‘big dogs’ that had cemented themselves have left. So, there’s a really nice opportunity to mix and mingle with the lads that are all fighting for the same position with you.”
With his work-rate and dedication described by Rob Baxter as ‘exemplary’, this could prove to be a stellar season for the Chiefs forward. He’s putting no pressure on himself or the situation – he’s simply looking to give his all to each week and see the results that materialise from that mindset.
Roots added another string to his bow when he was handed captaincy duty in this season’s Premiership Rugby Cup. The honour – which he described as having been a big learning curve for him – was one he wasn’t sure about in the first instance but an offer too special to turn down. The next honour came in the form of his hotly anticipated and long wished-for Premiership debut – gained against Saracens in a round one match-up and he scored a try in Chiefs unexpected 65-10 win over the London giants.
“The world’s kind of an open book right now, so I’m just going to see what I can write down in it. Right now, it’s just about putting consistent performances out, week-in week-out, for me. That’s probably the same for everyone – that’s what it’s all about. Anything I can get my hands on – whatever comes my way, I’d like to take the opportunity.” Roots will have the chance to impress today as Bristol Bears have fierce talent in their pack that will be coming to Sandy Park with a point to prove following a late loss last weekend at Ashton Gate.
THE WORLD’S KIND OF AN OPEN BOOK RIGHT NOW, SO I’M JUST GOING TO SEE WHAT I CAN WRITE DOWN IN IT. 17
2023•24 NAKED CALENDAR
18
Whether online or in person, don’t miss your chance to shop our kid's range while you’re here - visit our store today!
Simply scan the QR code to browse online, straight from your seat!
EXETERCHIEFSSTORE.CO.UK
SHOP THE NEW SEASON IN JUST A FEW CLICKS!
KIDS RANGE
2023•24 19
MANAGEMENT
EXETER CHIEFS ALI HEPHER HEAD COACH
ROB HUNTER FORWARDS COACH
OMAR MOUNEIMNE DEFENCE COACH
RICKY PELLOW SKILLS COACH
ROSS MCMILLAN SCRUM COACH
HAYDN THOMAS SENIOR COACH
GARETH STEENSON SENIOR COACH
SHANE O’HANRAHAN
LOUISE PASSMORE
LES BARROW
ROB BAXTER OBE DIRECTOR OF RUGBY
TONY WALKER
TEAM MANAGER
ROB GIBSON
ACADEMY MANAGER
ADRIAN HARRIS
DIRECTOR OF SPORTS MEDICINE
LEAD ACADEMY PHYSIOTHERAPIST
JONNY MARKS
ACADEMY PHYSIOTHERAPIST
ROB SHEEHAN
MEDICAL SECRETARY
JOHN GARMIN CLUB DOCTOR
MARK TWIGGS
UNIVERSITY PHYSIOTHERAPIST
HEAD OF STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
JAMIE FULTON
DAN FEASY
ROB BEDDARD
STEVE HAW
ANDY DAVIES
NICK COX
SCOTT MUNRO
SHANE O’HANRAHAN
HEAD OF MEDICAL SERVICES SENIOR PHYSIOTHERAPIST SENIOR PHYSIOTHERAPIST
JUNIOR PHYSIOTHERAPIST SPORTS REHABILITATOR SENIOR PHYSIOTHERAPIST
SENIOR STRENGTH & CONDITIONING COACH
SENIOR STRENGTH & CONDITIONING COACH
JAMIE NEMMER-THAYER
UNIVERSITY HEAD STRENGTH & CONDITIONING COACH
JACK PERRY
UNIVERSITY STRENGTH & CONDITIONING COACH
SENIOR STRENGTH & CONDITIONING REHABILITATOR
21
2023•24 MEN’S SQUAD NIKA ABULADZE 120KG (18ST 12LBS) PROP 1.86M (6FT 1IN) 29/10/1995
JOE BAILEY 108KG (15ST 4LBS) LOCK 2M (6FT 6INS) 04/07/2004
ALFIE BELL 116KG (18ST 3LBS) LOCK 2.03M (6FT 8INS) 04/12/2003
NICK ALISSON 91KG (14ST 5LBS) BACK 1.90M (6FT 2INS) 22/02/2005
KOFI BARTON-BYFIELD 82KG (12ST 12LBS) WING 1.71M (5FT 7INS) 15/09/2002
CHARLIE BELL 109KG (17ST 2LBS) LOCK/ (6FT 3INS) BACK-ROW 1.92M 07/04/2005
KEITA ANDO 109KG (7ST 2LBS) PROP 1.85M (6FT 1IN) 23/04/2005
NIALL ARMSTRONG 82KG (12ST 12LBS) SCRUM 1.79M (5FT 10INS) HALF 08/10/1999
WILL BECCONSALL 84KG (13ST 2LBS) SCRUM 1.81M (5FT 11INS) HALF 20/12/2002
OSCAR BECKERLEG 100KG (15ST 10LBS) LOCK 2.02M (6FT 7INS)
OLI BURROWS (17ST 2LBS) HOOKER 109KG 1.87M (6FT 1IN)
TOM CAIRNS 79KG (12ST 6LBS) SCRUM 1.69M (5FT 6INS) HALF 19/06/2002
16/05/2002
05/11/2005
23
RICHARD CAPSTICK (17ST 13LBS) BACK-ROW 114KG 1.96M (6FT 5INS) 13/02/2000
TOBY CLINCH (14ST 13LBS) CENTRE 95KG 1.82M (6FT) 14/10/2004
AIDON DAVIS (17ST 6LBS) BACK-ROW 111KG 1.91M (6FT 2INS) 29/04/1994
OLLIE DEVOTO (16ST 7LBS) CENTRE 105KG 1.93M (6FT 4INS) 22/09/1993
JAMES GILLESPIE
LUCAS DORRELL (15ST 8LBS) BACK-ROW 99KG 1.88M (6FT 2INS) 09/10/2001
JACK DUNNE 120KG (18ST 10LBS) LOCK 2.03M (6FT 8INS) 21/11/1998
IMMANUEL FEYI-WABOSO (14ST 13LBS) CENTRE/ 95KG 1.82M (6FT) WING 20/12/2002
GREG FISILAU (16ST 11LBS) BACK-ROW 107KG 1.86M (6FT 1IN) 07/09/2003
N M Partridge Building
DAN FROST (14ST 13LBS) HOOKER 95KG 1.72M (5FT 8INS) 24/04/1997
LOUIE GULLEY (15ST 8LBS) HOOKER 99KG 1.83M (6FT) 08/05/2005
24
KIAN GENTRY (14ST 11LBS) CENTRE 94KG 1.87M (6FT 1IN) 27/03/2003
BEN HAMMERSLEY 92KG (14ST 6LBS) WING 1.82M (6FT) 20/05/2003
JONNY GRAY 124KG (19ST 7LBS) LOCK 1.99M (6FT 6INS) 14/03/1994
IESTYN HARRIS (16ST 3LBS) HOOKER 103KG 1.85M (6FT 1IN) 24/11/1998
BEN GRUBB (17ST 4LBS) BACK-ROW 110KG 1.90M (6FT 3INS) 10/11/2002
JOE HAWKINS (15ST 3LBS) CENTRE 97KG 1.74M (5FT 7INS) 1.83M (6FT)
WILL HAYDON-WOOD (13ST 5LBS) FLY-HALF 85KG 1.76M (5FT 9IN) 27/10/2000
TOM HENDRICKSON (16ST) CENTRE 102KG 1.85M (6FT 1IN) 09/01/1994
JAMES GILLESPIE
JOSH HODGE (13ST 5LBS) FULL-BACK 85KG 1.86M (6FT 2INS) 23/05/2000
HARRY HOCKING (16ST 11LBS) HOOKER 107KG 1.85M (6FT 1IN)
30/03/1993
19/02/2002
JAMES GILLESPIE
JACK INNARD (17ST) HOOKER 108KG 1.79M (5FT 10INS) 07/03/1995
ORSON JAMES (12ST 12LBS) SCRUM- 82KG 1.80M (5FT 10INS) HALF 31/05/2004
DAFYDD JENKINS 117KG (18ST 5LBS) LOCK 2.01M (6FT 7INS)
MATT JOHNSON 132KG (20ST 11LBS) PROP 1.93M (6FT 4INS)
BILLY KEAST 112KG (17ST 8LBS) PROP 1.83M (6FT)
21/11/1997
ALEC HEPBURN 111KG (17ST 6LBS) PROP 1.85M (6FT 1IN)
12/05/2002
24/11/1996
JOSH IOSEFA-SCOTT 137KG (21ST 8LBS) PROP 1.90M (6FT 3INS)
KANE JAMES (14ST 6LBS) BACK-ROW 92KG 1.83M (6FT)
16/07/1996
IWAN JENKINS (13ST 7LBS) FLY-HALF 86KG 1.73M (5FT 8INS) 13/03/2003
JAMES KENNY 118KG (18ST 8LBS) PROP 1.83M (6FT) 26/05/1999
26/03/2005
DAN JOHN CENTRE/ WING
85KG (13ST 5LBS) 1.80M (5FT 10INS) 10/04/2001
JUNIOR KPOKU 117KG (18ST 5LBS) LOCK 2.04M (6FT 8INS) 09/10/2005
25
SAM MAUNDER (13ST 5LBS) SCRUM- 85KG 1.82M (6FT) HALF 22/03/2000
CHARLIE MCCAIG (15ST 1LB) CENTRE 96KG 1.89M (6FT 2INS)
MAX NOREY (16ST 9LBS) HOOKER 106KG 1.85M (6FT 1IN)
FRANKIE NOWELL 86KG (13ST 7LBS) WING/ (5FT 10INS) CENTRE 1.80M 22/11/2002
EOIN O’CONNOR 120KG (18ST 12LBS) LOCK 2.01M (6FT 7INS)
LEWIS PEARSON 118KG (18ST 8LBS) LOCK/ (6FT 3INS) BACK-ROW 1.90M 26/10/1999
MATT POSTLETHWAITE 116KG (18ST 3LBS) LOCK 1.95M (6FT 5INS)
FIN RICHARDSON 118KG (18ST 8LBS) PROP 1.84M (6FT)
CAMPBELL RIDL (13ST 9LBS) CENTRE 87KG 1.95M (6FT 4INS)
08/05/1999
EHREN PAINTER 137KG (21ST 8LBS) PROP 1.93M (6FT 4INS) 21/03/1998
CHESTER RIBBONS 3LBS CENTRE 97KG/15ST 1.91M/6FT 2INS 30/01/2002
26
24/01/2003
16/09/1998
SOL MOODY (15ST 10LBS) HOOKER 100KG 1.85M (6FT 1IN) 16/04/2005
21/07/2000
10/01/1996
02/02/2005
JACOB MORRIS 110KG (17ST 4LBS) PROP 1.81M (5FT 11INS) 16/04/2000
RORY O’LOUGHLIN 95KG (14ST 13LBS) WING/ (6FT 2INS) CENTRE 1.88M 21/01/1994
ARTHUR RELTON 87KG (13ST 9LBS) WING 189M (6FT 2IN) 06/07/2001
ETHAN ROOTS (17ST 11LBS) BACK-ROW 113KG 1.88M (6FT 2INS) 11/10/1999
PATRICK SCHICKERLING 125KG (19ST 9LBS) PROP 1.82M (6FT)
LOUIE SINCLAIR (13ST 2LBS) FLY-HALF 88KG 1.88M (6FT 2INS)
16/10/1998
12/09/2004
SCOTT SIO 127KG (19ST 13LBS) PROP 1.85M (6FT 1IN) 16/10/1991
HARVEY SKINNER (14ST 6LBS) FLY-HALF 92KG 1.89M (6FT 2INS) 31/12/1997
JAMES GILLESPIE
HENRY SLADE (15ST 1LB) CENTRE 96KG 1.91M (6FT 2INS) 19/03/1993
CORY TEAGUE 115KG (18ST 1LB) LOCK 1.95M (6FT 5INS) 11/09/1999
RUSI TUIMA (20ST 2LBS) BACK-ROW 128KG 1.95M (6FT 5INS) 21/05/2000
JOE SNOW SCRUMHALF
87KG (13ST 9LBS) 1.86M (6FT 1IN) 12/11/1998
DANNY SOUTHWORTH 117KG (18ST 5LBS) PROP 1.81M (5FT 11INS) 05/04/1999
MARCUS STREET 119KG (18ST 10LBS) PROP 1.82M (6FT) 02/06/1999
STU TOWNSEND 94KG (14ST 11LBS) SCRUM 1.75M (5FT 8INS) HALF 10/11/1995
CHRIST TSHIUNZA 114KG (17ST 13LBS) LOCK/ (6FT 5INS) BACK-ROW 1.98M 01/09/2002
JEREMY TUIMA (15ST 8LBS) CENTRE 99KG 1.89M (6FT 2IN)
JACQUES VERMEULEN (18ST 12LBS) BACK-ROW 120KG 1.96M (6FT 5INS)
ROSS VINTCENT (16ST) BACK-ROW 102KG 1.87M (6FT 1IN)
ZACK WIMBUSH (16ST 11LBS) CENTRE 107KG 1.96M (6FT 5INS)
02/08/1995
06/05/2002
25/04/2005
24/10/2003
27
OLLY WOODBURN 98KG (15ST 6LBS) WING 1.88M (6FT 2INS) 18/11/1991
FINN WORLEY-BRADY (15ST 8LBS) BACK-ROW 99KG 1.88M (6FT 2INS) 26/10/2004
TOM WYATT (14ST 9LBS) CENTRE 93KG 1.87M (6FT 1IN)
JACK YEANDLE (17ST 2LBS) HOOKER 109KG 1.85M (6FT 1IN)
14/12/1999
ELLIOTT YOUNG (16ST 5LBS) HOOKER 104KG 1.83M (6FT) 14/03/2004
EXETER CHIEFS PLAYERS To find out how you can sponsor one of the players Contact Charlie Dunn on 01392 890879 or email him at charliedunn@exeterchiefs.co.uk
28
22/12/1989
FOR 6-17 YEAR OLDS
PLAY LIKE THE PROS OFFICIAL RUGBY CAMPS
Develop your rugby skills with players and coaches from England’s leading clubs. There are camps across the country for children aged 6-17. For more info visit WWW.RUGBYCAMPS.COM
29
All your essential business technology in one place
Digital Workplace
Telecoms
Connectivity
IT solutions
Cyber security
Mobile
Energy
Welcome to Focus Group Established in 2003, Focus Group is proud to be one of the UK’s leading independent providers of essential business technology and delighted to sponsor Exeter Chiefs. Delivering innovative solutions to keep businesses connected, we’re here to take care of all your telecoms, connectivity, IT solutions, cyber security and mobile services. Meaning all your essential business technology in one place.
Award-winning partnerships Our long-standing partnerships, preferential agreements, awards and accreditations with leading suppliers across the technology sector are testament to the commitment we have to delivering best-in-class products, solutions and services to your business.
Renowned service No matter the technology, the expertise of our team is second to none. We’re a focused team of experts who care about you and the future of your business. We’re here to help your business shine.
Let’s connect. Let’s grow. 0330 024 2000 sales@focusgroup.co.uk focusgroup.co.uk
LINE-UPS
15. TOMMY WYATT 14. IMMANUEL FEYI-WABOSO 13. HENRY SLADE 12. TOM HENDRICKSON 11. OLLY WOODBURN 10. HARVEY SKINNER 9. TOM CAIRNS 1. SCOTT SIO 2. JACK YEANDLE (C) 3. EHREN PAINTER 4. RUSI TUIMA 5. LEWIS PEARSON 6. ETHAN ROOTS 7. JACQUES VERMEULEN 8. ROSS VINTCENT REPS 16. DAN FROST 17. NIKA ABULADZE 18. JOSH IOSEFA-SCOTT 19. DAFYDD JENKINS 20. AIDON DAVIS 21. NIALL ARMSTRONG 22. WILL HAYDON-WOOD 23. JOE HAWKINS
32
15. RICH LANE 14. NOAH HEWARD 13. VIRIMI VAKATAWA 12. BENHARD JV RENSBURG 11. GABRIEL IBITOYE 10. CALLUM SHEEDY 9. KIERAN MARMION 1. SAM GRAHAMSLAW 2. WILL CAPON 3. GEORGE KLOSKA 4. JOSH CAULFIELD 5. JOE BATLEY 6. JAMES DUN 7. FITZ HARDING (C) 8. MAGNUS BRADBURY REPS 16. HARRY THACKER 17. JAKE WOOLMORE 18. MAX LAHIFF 19. ED HOLMES 20. DAN THOMAS 21. HARRY RANDALL 22. JAMES WILLIAMS 23. PIERS O'CONOR
TODAY’S OFFICIALS:
REFEREE: HAMISH SMALES ASSISTANT REFEREES: ANTHONY WOODTHORPE, JAMES CLARKE FOURTH OFFICIAL: KEVIN WILLIAMS TELEVISION MATCH OFFICIAL: DAVID ROSE 33
Stainless steal.
In 1972, famed designer Gérald Genta created an oxymoron. Priced more than many precious metal rivals, the ‘luxury stainless steel timepiece’ was not an immediate success. But eventually its tough, elegant body, integrated bracelet and patterned dial caught on. A watch that dressed up for dinner. Or down, at the pool. Today’s 40mm, base automatic of that original watch costs £22,850 more than the new ‘Twelve’ - named for its dodecagon-sided bezel and rear lock ring. Our watch is thinner, goes deeper and offers a choice of C1/BL Grade X1-lumed dials. A polished, brushed and sandblasted case of daylight (and night time) robbery? Do your research.
christopherward.com
BRISTOL BEARS LOST SOME BIG NAMES AT THE END OF LAST SEASON, BUT THEIR PERFORMANCES SO FAR THIS SEASON HAVE SHOWN THEY ARE UP TO THE TASK OF REBUILDING TO FILL THE VOID
35
IT WAS A CHALLENGING 2022/23 SEASON FOR THE BEARS AS THEY WON JUST EIGHT GAMES FROM 20 AND KEY FIGURES SUCH AS JOE JOYCE, SEMI RADRADRA AND CHARLES PIUTAU ALL DEPARTED THE CLUB AT THE END OF THE SEASON. HOWEVER, THE BRISTOL-MEN HAVE STARTED THIS NEW CAMPAIGN ON A STRONG FOOTING. Finishing mid-table in Pool D in the Premiership Rugby Cup at the beginning of this season, Bristol used the new-look Cup competition to test new signings and new combinations before another highly competitive Premiership league season began. A 75-0 loss to Chiefs at Sandy Park in round one of the Cup will have faded from memory with 39-38 and 9814 wins at home over Northampton Saints and Cambridge intersected by a winning 41-57 trip to Castle Park against Doncaster Knights. Despite missing out on the knockout stages of the Cup, Bristol turned their focus to the league with success as
36
they currently sit third in the table – on the same points as Chiefs in second but the Exetermen hold the better points difference. A 25-14 opening weekend win at Ashton Gate over Leicester Tigers and a 27-33 win on the road to Northampton Saints in round two will have ensured Pat Lam’s men aren’t too disheartened by last weekend’s 21-23 late loss to Harlequins at Ashton Gate. It’s a Bristol side which looks healthy with talent still evident in both the pack and the back-line. They can still bring the threat to any hosting team, so it will be an interesting test for Rob Baxter’s young side this afternoon.
DIRECTOR OF RUGBY: PAT LAMB Taking the helm of the Bristol ship under his control in 2017/18, the New Zealand-born former player has since become the most successful coach in the professional of Bristol Bears. A back-rower in his playing days, Lam represented Auckland, North Harbour and Crusaders in his country of birth before moving to the UK to don the colours of Newcastle Falcons and Northampton Saints. Lam’s international contribution was undoubtable for Samoa as he gained a total of 34 caps for the pacific islanders, featuring in three Rugby World Cup campaigns. Before arriving in Bristol, Lam developed his coaching prowess with Samoa, Blues and Auckland before garnering recognition as the man in charge of Irish side Connacht when they won the Pro12 title in 2016.
Lam has since become a figurehead of the Bears and this partnership will continue to flourish as the DoR is currently in contract until 2028.
ONE TO WATCH: MAGNUS BRADBURY 28-year-old back rower Magnus Bradbury originally signed for Bristol Bears ahead of the 2022/23 season. It would be safe to say the Scotland internationalist has since gone from strength to strength – exemplified by his win of the John Pullin Players’ Player of the Season award in his inaugural season in the Premiership. Joining Edinburgh Rugby in 2014, Bradbury made his professional debut aged just 19. Developing into a wellrounded player, Bradbury was called up for his Scotland debut against Argentina in 2016 and went on to become a club centurion with Edinburgh before departing for Ashton Gate. Featuring in several of Bristol’s eight games already this season – scoring two tries in the side’s impressive 27-33 win over Northampton Saints at Franklins’ Gardens – it would be a fair assessment to suggest the barnstorming back-rower will be a regular feature of Bristol’s pack for another year. 37
WE PUT SCOTT SIO THROUGH 15 QUICK-FIRE QUESTIONS... 1. First team you played rugby for? Wests Juniors
2. First influential coach?
My dad, he was my junior coach
3. Have you played in any other position?
When I was younger, at number eight or flanker
4. Rugby hero/inspiration? George Smith
5. First professional game? Brumbies v Sharks in 2012
6. Best away ground? Twickenham
7. Best rugby memory?
Brumbies beat the British and Irish Lions on their 2013 tour
8. Rugby best friends?
Folau Fainga'a, Allan Alaalatoa and Christian Leali-ifano
9. Nickname
Uncle or Unkolo
10. Favourite takeaway? KFC
11. Favourite book?
Any of the Harry Potter books
12. Sports teams you follow away from rugby?
Tottenham Hotspurs and Wests Tigers
13. Tea or coffee? Coffee
14. Last thing you listened to? 'Spot the Difference', Onefour
15. Favourite film? Cars
39
PREMIERSHIP RUGBY ROUND-UP WEEK THREE AFTER TWO INCREDIBLY COMPETITIVE OPENING ROUNDS, ROUND THREE LAST WEEKEND SAW A MIXTURE OF TIGHT-MARGIN RESULTS OR SIDES RUNNING AWAY WITH RESULTS AGAINST STRUGGLING OPPOSITION. Round three began on Friday night with Gloucester suffering at Kingsholm at the hands of reigning champions, Saracens. Despite two yellow cards – to Mako Vunipola and Ivan van Zyl – the travelling side secured a 3-24 victory courtesy of a try brace from Tom Willis and a try from Alex Lewington. All were converted – alongside a penalty – by Alex Lozowski. Saturday’s action was, in the eyes of Chiefs fans, dominated by an unexpected 43-0 runaway result over Sale Sharks at Sandy Park. Elsewhere, at Ashton Gate, today’s opposition Bristol Bears had the game slip through their grasp late-on as Harlequins returned to London with a 21-23 win to their name. Jared Evans’ two conversions to Callum Sheedy’s one proved to be the clincher.
40
To end the day’s action, Leicester Tigers claimed the W by a single point as a higher scoring second half put them on top of Bath 24-25 at The Rec. Harry Wells’ second half sin-binning didn’t help the visitors’ cause but Jamie Shillcock kicking six penalties was enough to claim the narrow victory. A clash between Newcastle Falcons and Northampton Saints at Kingston Park was the final act of the weekend as the Geordie hosts fell just short of their guests, 14-16. This weekend’s matchups has fifth and sixth place facing off as Gloucester take on Sale in Manchester to open things on Friday evening. Saracens will look to leap-frog Tigers whom they host at the StoneX with Harlequins at home to Newcastle and Saints welcoming Bath to round out Saturday. And the Chiefs in action today against Bristol completes the weekend.
TEAM
P
W
L
D
F
A
PD
BONUS POINTS
1
Bath
3
2
1
0
83
67
16
3
11
2
Exeter Chiefs
3
2
1
0
122
32
90
2
10
3
Bristol
3
2
1
0
79
64
15
2
10
4
Harlequins
3
2
1
0
73
64
9
1
9
5
Gloucester
3
2
1
0
50
66
-16
1
9
6
Sale
3
2
1
0
44
75
-31
0
8
7
Northampton Saints
3
1
2
0
58
67
-9
3
7
8
Leicester Tigers
3
1
2
0
56
73
-17
1
5
9
Saracens
3
1
2
0
50
93
-43
0
4
10
Newcastle Falcons
3
0
3
0
54
68
-14
2
2
GAS TURBINES
PROUD SPONSOR OF EXETER CHIEFS WISHING THEM GOOD LUCK FOR THE NEW SEASON!
Centrax Limited is a privately owned company, specialising in the supply of gas turbine generator sets and associated maintenance. To date over 400 units have been sold for combined heat and power (CHP) applications with over 90% of our business being outside of the UK. Our high efficiency, low emission generator set packages have a small footprint, ideal for space constricted urban datacentres which can operate on gas, liquid fuel & hydrogen. Our factory is based in Newton Abbot, Devon which includes extensive maintenance facilities that have full turbine repair capabilities.
CENTRAX. GENERATING TRUST.
LEARN MORE centraxgt.com +44 (0)1626 358 000 info@centraxgt.com 41
PROJECT RUGBY
PROJECT RUGBY IS A GRASSROOTS PARTICIPATION PROGRAMME DELIVERED BY PREMIERSHIP RUGBY, IN COLLABORATION WITH ENGLAND RUGBY AND GALLAGHER. PROJECT RUGBY IS DESIGNED TO INTRODUCE AS MANY PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE TO RUGBY, ENGAGE NEW AUDIENCES AND STIMULATE A LIFELONG INTEREST IN THE GAME. Since the programme began, it has engaged more than 80,000 young people. The programme specifically aims to increase participation in the game from underrepresented groups: people from ethnically diverse communities and lower socio-economic backgrounds, and people with disabilities, positioning rugby as a sport for anyone regardless of background or ability. Activities comprise accessible formats of the game, including touch and mixed ability rugby, delivered and supported by community staff from 10 Premiership Rugby clubs. This year, as part of Project Rugby we have currently delivered to Launceston College, Newton Abbot College, Teign School, Paignton Academy and Tiverton High School. We have delivered to both boys and girls in these sessions, with the hope that some students want to take rugby further and join a club. We look forward to delivering more sessions in the near future, with the aim of working with SEN students and organisations. With our help a newly formed Mixed Ability Rugby team is now in Exeter, Exeter Saracens Mixed Ability Rugby. This gives a great opportunity for anyone to participate and play rugby.
RICHARD BRIGHT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER 43
MATCH REPORT PREMIERSHIP RUGBY - SATURDAY 28 OCTOBER
43 0 Tries: G Fisilau, D Frost, J Iosefa-Scott, I Feyi-Waboso, N Armstrong Cons: Slade (4)
46
EXETER CHIEFS V SALE
TOP PERFORMERS
TRIES
CARRIES
TACKLES
TERRITORY
POSSESSION
MATCH STATS
49 50% 101 80 6
51 50% 95 81 0
CARRIES
TACKLES
CLEAR OUTS
TOMMY WYATT
ETHAN ROOTS
ETHAN ROOTS
9
14
27
GREG FISILAU
LEWIS PEARSON
LEWIS PEARSON
8
10
23
RUSI TUIMA
GREG FISILAU
GREG FISILAU
7
8
23
Exeter Chiefs: T Wyatt; I Feyi-Waboso, H Slade ©, T Hendrickson (J Hawkins 59), B Hammersley; H Skinner (W Haydon-Wood 70), T Cairns (N Armstrong 59); N Abuladze (S Sio 48), D Frost (J Yeandle 48), J Iosefa-Scott (E Painter 48); R Tuima (D Jenkins 58), L Pearson, E Roots, J Vermeulen (C Tshiunza 58), G Fisilau. Sale Sharks: T O’Flaherty; T Roebuck, S James, S Bedlow (N Thomas 55), A Reed; R Du Preez, G Warr (T Curtis 65); R Harrison (S McIntyre 50), N Langdon, N Schonert (J Harper 50), C Wiese (B Bamber 62), J Hill (J Beaumont 53), R Birch (H Thompson 69), E Van Rhyn (T Ellis 52), D Du Preez Referee: Joe James
Attendance: 8424
47
Proud sponsors of the Exeter Chiefs
Don’t get a bum deal on your next car lease Rated 4.9 stars on Feefo
01395 720 197 48
Your local leasing experts sales@carparisonleasing.co.uk
JOIN THE JOURNEY
2023/24 WOMEN’S FIXTURES LEICESTER TIGERS(A) SUNDAY 19 NOV | 3PM
BRISTOL BEARS SATURDAY 25 NOV | 3PM
SALE SHARKS(A)
SATURDAY 2 DEC | 2PM
HARLEQUINS(A) SATURDAY 9 DEC | 3PM
GLOUCESTER-HARTPURY SATURDAY 16 DEC | 3PM
LOUGHBOROUGH (A) SATURDAY 23 DEC | 3PM
TRAILFINDERS SUNDAY 7 JAN | TBC
SARACENS(A) SATURDAY 13 DEC | 2.30PM
CUP ROUND 6 SATURDAY 13 APR | TBC
WARRIORS WOMEN
CUP ROUND 7
SATURDAY 20 JAN | TBC
SATURDAY 27 APR | TBC
BRISTOL BEARS(A) SATURDAY 3 FEB | TBC
SALE SHARKS SATURDAY 10 FEB | TBC
HARLEQUINS SATURDAY 24 FEB | TBC
GLOUCESTER-HARTPURY(A) SATURDAY 2 MAR | 14:00
LOUGHBOROUGH SATURDAY 9 MAR | TBC
TRAILFINDERS(A) SATURDAY 11 MAY | TBC
SARACENS SATURDAY 18 MAY | TBC
WARRIORS WOMEN (A) SATURDAY 25 MAY | TBC
LEICESTER TIGERS SATURDAY 1 JUN | TBC
* FIXTURES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
TICKETHUB.EXETERCHIEFS.CO.UK 49
Find your local, independent tool store! Troy members near today's opponents: Bristol Bears Power tools | Workwear | PPE | Abrasives | Cutting Tools
Bell Bristol BS3 5AZ 0117 963 8333
Talbot-Owen Ltd BS16 3AE 0117 965 4221
BLC Construction Ltd BS11 9YT 01179 828180
Tool & Fastener Solutions Ltd BS2 0BS 0117 370 7106
Evoke Supplies Ltd BS2 0XH 01749 594031 Fastfix Bristol BS5 0DB 0117 955 1616 Lloyd & Jones Ltd BS15 8NH 0117 992 2999 PVR Direct BS4 5RG 0117 977 0184
Scan to find your local Troy members
COME ON YOU CHIEFS 50
MANAGEMENT
EXETER CHIEFS WOMEN
SUSIE APPLEBY HEAD COACH
KEN KABONGO P HYSIOTHERAPIST
JADE KONIGKRAMER STRENGTH &
CONDITIONING COACH
STEVE SALVIN ASSISTANT COACH
BEN MARTIN ASSISTANT COACH
JACKIE COLES TEAM MANAGER
CAT MOORE TEAM MANAGER
JOEL RANFT STRENGTH &
OLLIE CHALK ANALYST
CONDITIONING COACH
51
2023•24 WOMEN’S SQUAD MAISY ALLEN (11ST) BACK-ROW 70KG 1.64M (5FT 4INS) 21/09/2001
KATIE BUCHANAN (10ST 12LBS) FULL-BACK 69KG 1.64M (5FT 4INS) 31/07/2003
MERRYN DOIDGE (10ST 9LBS) FULL-BACK 68KG 1.75M (5FT 9INS) 02/12/2000
52
HARRIET BOND (10ST 9LBS) WINGER 68KG 1.71M (5FT 7INS) 05/04/2003
GABBY CANTORNA (12ST 6LBS) CENTRE 79KG 1.64M (5FT 4INS) 02/08/1995
NICHOLA FRYDAY 83KG (13ST) LOCK 1.75M (5FT 9INS) 02/06/1995
BROOKE BRADLEY (9ST 1LB) SCRUM- 58KG 1.60M (5FT 2INS) HALF 21/01/1999
NAOMI BRENNAN (11ST 2LBS) CENTRE 71KG 1.67M (5FT 5INS)
LORI CRAMER (10ST 7LBS) FULL-BACK/ 67KG 1.68M (5FT 6INS) WING 08/03/1993
LOTTIE DADDS (10ST 9LBS) FLY-HALF/ 68KG (5FT 7INS) CENTRE 1.70M 01/08/2003
LIZZIE HANLON (13ST 9LBS) HOOKER 87KG 1.71M (5FT 7INS)
SAMMIE HARRIS (10ST 7LBS) FULL-BACK 67KG 1.70M (5FT 7INS)
30/07/2001
24/10/2003
04/11/2001
ELOISE HAYWARD (10ST 7LBS) SCRUM- 67KG 1.64M (5FT 4INS) HALF 07/09/1999
EBONY JEFFERIES (12ST 1LB) BACK-ROW 77KG 1.73M (5FT 8INS)
SOPHIE LANGFORD (11ST 11LBS) CENTRE 75KG 1.68M (5FT 6INS)
POPPY LEITCH 72KG (11ST 4LBS) LOCK/ (5FT 6INS) BACK-ROW 1.69M 04/07/1997
CLAUDIA MACDONALD 66KG (10ST 5LBS) WING 1.67M (5FT 5INS)
EDEL MCMAHON (11ST 4LBS) BACK-ROW 72KG 1.63M (5FT 4INS)
DALEAKA MENIN 92KG (14ST 6LBS) PROP 1.64M (5FT 4INS)
22/08/2004
NANCY MCGILLIVRAY (12ST 3LBS) CENTRE 78KG 1.68M (5FT 6INS) 15/11/2002
EMILY MAGEE CENTRE/WING/ FULL-BACK
72KG (11ST 4LBS) 1.73M (5FT 8INS) 03/11/1990
21/07/1999
25/03/1994
HARRIET MILLAR-MILLS (13ST 5LBS) BACK-ROW 85KG 1.78M (5FT 10INS) 16/04/1991
RACHEL JOHNSON (13ST 3LBS) BACK-ROW 84G 1.70M (5FT 7INS) 05/02/1991
04/01/1996
16/06/1995
CLIODHNA MOLONEY (13ST 5LBS) HOOKER 85KG 1.67M (5FT 5INS) 31/05/1993
KANAKO KOBAYASHI (10ST 9LBS) CENTRE 68KG 1.64M (5FT 4INS) 13/11/1998
MAIRI MCDONALD (9ST 4LBS) SCRUM- 59KG 1.58M (5FT 2INS) HALF 25/11/1997
ABBY MIDDLEBROOKE 72KG (11ST 4LBS) PROP 1.64M (5FT 4INS) 13/05/2002
PANASHE MUZAMBE 80KG (12ST 8LBS) PROP 1.67M (5FT 5INS) 17/11/1995
53
CLARA NIELSON (11ST 6LBS) HOOKER 73KG 1.64M (5FT 4INS) 22/10/1992
JOSIE PLANT 84KG (13ST 3LBS) LOCK 1.76M (5FT 9INS) 25/01/2005
ALICIA PRINT (14ST 11LBS) HOOKER 94KG 1.69M (5FT 6INS) 02/07/1997
ALESSIA SKEATES 98KG (15ST 6LBS) PROP 1.64M (5FT 4INS) 19/08/2004
54
NIAMH ORCHARD 87KG (13ST 9LBS) LOCK 1.75M (5FT 9INS )
OLIVIA ORTIZ (9ST 10LBS) SCRUM- 62KG 1.50M (4FT 11INS) HALF 23/10/1997
JODIE OUNSLEY 74KG (11ST 9LBS) WING 1.70M (5FT 7INS)
FELICITY POWDRELL (10ST 5LBS) CENTRE / 66KG (5FT 5INS) BACK-ROW 1.66M 01/11/1996
DANIELLE PREECE (11ST 6LBS) CENTRE 73KG 1.75M (5FT 7INS)
KAYLEIGH PRIEST (13ST 12LBS) HOOKER/ 88KG (5FT 5INS) BACK-ROW 1.67M 22/09/2005
HOPE ROGERS 92KG (14ST 6LBS) PROP 1.68M (5FT 6INS)
HANNAH SAMS 100KG (15ST 10LBS) PROP 1.72M (5FT 7INS)
26/05/2003
07/01/1993
KATE SMITH 79KG (12ST 6LBS) LOCK 1.81M (5FT 11INS) 01/05/2002
16/08/2004
26/08/2005
LAUREN SUMMERS (8ST 11LBS) SCRUM- 56KG 1.53M (5FT) HALF 21/10/2001
17/01/2001
EILIDH SINCLAIR 72KG (11ST 4LBS) WING 1.66M (5FT 5INS) 06/07/1995
ALEX TESSIER (11ST 9LBS) FLY-HALF 74KG 1.73M (5FT 8INS) 03/09/1993
EMILY TUTTOSI (13ST 9LBS) HOOKER 87KG 1.71M (5FT 7INS) 21/09/1995
LINDE VAN DER VELDEN (14ST 6LBS) BACK-ROW/92KG 1.84M (6FT) LOCK 20/02/1995
ROBYN WILKINS (11ST 6LBS) FLY-HALF 73KG 1.68M (5FT 6INS) 01/04/1995
SAMMY WONG (9ST 8LBS) SCRUM- 61KG 1.54M (5FT) HALF 21/07/1989
EXETER CHIEFS PLAYERS
To find out how you can sponsor one of the players Contact Charlie Dunn on 01392 890879 or email him at charliedunn@exeterchiefs.co.uk
55
MATCH REPORT
ALLIANZ CUP - SATURDAY 28 OCTOBER
7 Tries: Tutt Cons: Jones
56
61 Tries: Jefferies (2), Sinclair, Preece, Bradley (2), Buchanan, Powdrell (2), van der Velden, Middlebrooke Cons: Cunningham (3)
LEICESTER TIGERS WOMEN V EXETER CHIEFS WOMEN
Leicester Tigers Women: A Swatrz; C Collie, K Childs, R DeFilippo, A Tutt; N Jones (c), A Relf, J Shakespeare, A Bainbridge, O Ugiabge, K Turner, A Orrow, M Richardson, R McBrien (vc), R Noon. Reps: T Bird, R Church, G Grimes, Z Warrington, S Mead, P Roberts, K Thicker, Z Evans Exeter Chiefs Women: K Buchanan; E Sinclair, D Preece, S Langford, H Bond; E Cunningham, B Bradley (vc); P Muzambe, C Moloney, L Hanlon, N Fryday, L van der Velden, E Jefferies, P Leitch (c), M Fe’aunati. Reps: A Middlebrooke, D French, H Sams, H Millar-Mills, F Powdrell, O Ortiz, N Brennan, S Harris. Referee: Nikki O'Donnell
57
WXV EXPLAINED WXV IS WORLD RUGBY’S BRAND NEW THREETIER ANNUAL WOMEN’S INTERNATIONAL 15S COMPETITION WHICH HAS BEEN INTEGRAL IN RESTRUCTURING THE TEST CALENDAR FOR THE WOMEN’S GAME. The ultimate goal of the competition is to attempt to revolutionise the women’s game by providing a clear and meaningful pathway for players in preparation for an expanded 16-team Rugby World Cup in 2025.
WXV 1 Each tier of the competition consists of six teams in a cross-pool format. The top-tier teams included in this inaugural tournament are England, France and Wales in pool one with Australia, Canada and New Zealand in pool two. This tier concludes this weekend with some big clashes – Australia v Wales, France v Canada and England v New Zealand. It won’t be a final weekend for the faint hearted, though the title looks sure to go to the Red Roses as they sit four points clear of host nation New Zealand at the top of the pool table.
WXV 2 The second tier sees pool one host Scotland, Italy and USA alongside a second pool of Japan, Samoa and South Africa. WXV2 results were decided when Scotland had a nervous overnight wait to discover they had beaten Italy on points difference to claim the inaugural title having won their last six games in international competition.
WXV 3 The third tier’s pool system is formatted like WXV1 and WXV2, however, teams in this pool play for promotion to WXV2 with one team demoted from the second tier into WXV3 at the end of each season. European sides Ireland and Spain go up against Kazakhstan in pool one with pool two formed by Fiji, Kenya and Colombia. WXV3 concluded in a dramatic second-half comeback from Ireland against Spain to snag the title. An impressive feat in itself made all the more impressive when Ireland hadn’t won an international game in a year prior to the competition.
CHIEFS WOMEN'S PLAYERS INVOLVED Maisy Allen (England) Claudia MacDonald (England) Lori Cramer (Australia) Emily Tuttosi (Canada) Daleaka Menin (Canada) Alex Tessier (Canada) Robyn Wilkins (Wales) Kanako Kobayashi (Japan) Gabby Cantorna (USA) Rachel Johnson (USA) Mairi McDonald (Scotland) Edel McMahon (Ireland) Clara Nielson (Ireland) 59
DEMI KEENAN JOINS EXETER CHIEFS AS NEW HEAD OF FOUNDATION. Demi has always had a heart for charity and has had a varied background helping to set up many charities in the past before she joined the Chiefs Charity Foundation. Whilst living in the Philippines – where she lived for 16 years building and running her own apartment development – Demi helped to set up a CIC for women living on a dumpsite where extremely impoverished people were scavenging for goods to sell to make ends meet.
Exeter and the surrounding area, we always need your support. Please visit the foundation website today to find out more information or if you would like to donate. Also, don’t forget to book your table for our charity Christmas Lunch on December 14!
The foundation called Lumago (meaning ‘to grow’) was created so the women who find materials to upcycle from the dumpsite then use their creative talents to make jewellery from the materials found. The foundation is still thriving today with the jewellery being sold worldwide. Returning to her hometown of Torquay eight years ago, Demi set up her own business in interior design. Through this work, Demi has helped to set up three busses to use for charities in the town. One bus was for underprivileged children and families to use for education, counselling and health practices. Growing up surrounded by rugby and with rugby crazed Welsh parents who support Wales and any rugby match with a passion, Demi had no choice other than to love the sport. So, when the opportunity to work for the Chiefs and its charity came up, it put two passions hand in hand – so it was the perfect fit.
This leads nicely to today’s bucket collectors from It's in the Bag. This charity raises awareness and provides support for men with testicular cancer in the South-West. It's in the Bag was started by a gorup of testicular cancer survivors and is supported from specialist NHS staff.
As the foundation works with many charities across
EXETERCHIEFSFOUNDATION.ORG.UK
61
No.1 Sports University in the South of England and Wales BUCS 22/23
exeter.ac.uk
Proud sponsors of the Exeter Chiefs
HALLAM CHAPMAN SIGNS WITH CHIEFS IF THERE IS ONE CHARACTER TRAIT THAT HALLAM CHAPMAN EMBODIES WITH GUSTO, IT WOULD BE RESILIENCE. HE’S TAKEN A FAIR FEW KNOCKBACKS IN HIS YOUNG CAREER BUT HE’S NOW FOUND HIMSELF PLAYING FOR HIS HOME COUNTY CLUB. Chapman officially signed a contract with Chiefs this week following a successful two-week trial period. He had his first taste of action in an Exeter shirt on Monday night in Sandy Park’s friendly fixture against Bristol Bears. Chapman joined up with the Chiefs in October following the news that his club – RFU Championship side, Jersey Reds – would cease trading in the midst of financial woes, leaving the back rower without a contract. Discussing the opportunity afforded to him by Rob Baxter and the Chiefs, the man born in Devon can’t quite believe he is playing for his home Premiership club after a testing few months. “It’s been a rollercoaster. I suppose you’ve just got to be perseverant. I feel like any setback you have – there’s always opportunities to go from there. I had a brilliant time at Jersey – the coaches and boys were fantastic – but unfortunately it is no more.” “So, to come back home and have an opportunity here to kick on from is just brilliant. I’ve just got to keep on going, carry on working hard, and if something gets in the way then I’ll just deal with it and go from there.”
National Two with Sedgley Park Tigers and Fylde playing simultaneously in the league while still representing his university side at Manchester Metropolitan University. The 26-year-old also has a handful of representative honours to his name including England Counties U20s and England Students 7s. Director of rugby Rob Baxter is delighted with the newest acquisition for his squad. “Hallam is an ambitious young player taking a less traditional rugby route where he has looked for opportunities outside the regular academy pathway. This led him to play games for London Irish and then to a contract with Jersey.” “The situation at Jersey led to Hallam returning home to North Devon and again seeking new opportunities, and after reviewing some footage of him, I invited him to a trial period to train with us. At the same time Plymouth Albion were looking for back five forwards so Hallam trained with us and played for Plymouth over a two-week period and in that time has earned a contract to the end of the season with us.” “He featured in the A league friendly on Monday. I see him as a hard working, ambitious young man who has been prepared to follow his dream and I can see him developing at a rapid pace in the short time he has been with us.” “Hopefully this can continue across the rest of this season and Hallam can make the most of this opportunity.”
“The coaches really know how to push the players and, in fairness, the players are really good at knowing what we need to do right and how to build upon things ourselves. We’ve got high expectations of ourselves and we’ve got to push ourselves to fulfil them. I’m just going to take the season one step at a time.” Being back in Devon has made the transition relatively seamless for Chapman who is back amongst family and boys he grew up playing rugby with, like Chiefs prop Danny Southworth. Chapman’s time prior to the island life included a period with London Irish. He also spent time in
63
JOIN THE JOURNEY
2023/24 MEN’S FIXTURES BRISTOL BEARS SUNDAY 5 NOV | 3PM
NORTHAMPTON SAINTS(A) SUNDAY 12 NOV | 3PM
GLOUCESTER RUGBY SUNDAY 19 NOV | 3PM
NEWCASTLE FALCONS(A) SUNDAY 26 NOV | 3PM
BATH RUGBY (A)
LEICESTER TIGERS SATURDAY 23 DEC | 3PM
BRISTOL BEARS (A) FRIDAY 29 DEC | 7.45PM
NORTHAMPTON SAINTS SATURDAY 6 JAN | 3PM
GLASGOW WARRIORS SATURDAY 13 JAN | 1PM
BAYONNAIS(A)
SATURDAY 2 DEC | 3PM
SUNDAY 21 JAN | 5.30PM
RC TOULON (A)
SARACENS(A)
SATURDAY 9 DEC | 1PM
MUNSTER SUNDAY 17 DEC | 1PM
SALE SHARKS (A) 29/30/31 MAR | TBC
BATH RUGBY 20/21 APRIL | TBC
GLOUCESTER RUGBY (A) 26/27/28 APRIL | TBC
HARLEQUINS 11/12 MAY | TBC
LEICESTER TIGERS (A) 17/18/19 MAY | TBC
27/28 JAN | TBC
NEWCASTLE FALCONS 23/24 MAR | TBC
* FIXTURES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
TICKETHUB.EXETERCHIEFS.CO.UK 65
FROM THE PRESS BOX I KNEW I WASN’T GOING OUT ON A LIMB TOO FAR TO SAY EIGHT WEEKS AGO IN THIS PROGRAMME THAT I FEARED THE DESTINY OF THE RUGBY WORLD CUP WOULD BE DETERMINED BY MORE CONTROVERSY OVER THE HIGH TACKLE ISSUE THAT HAS PLAGUED THE SPORT WE LOVE FOR FAR TOO LONG NOW. The 2023 World Cup final will always be remembered as the game where one captain – New Zealand’s Sam Cane – received a red card, and one – South Africa’s Siya Kolisi, didn’t. I have watched and listened to ex-players and officials and keen rugby followers debate the merits of the two decisions – which were handed over by referee Wayne Barnes for ‘bunker review’ – on social media over the past week and there is little consensus of opinion, and that goes back to what I have said before, that there is such muddled thinking over the issue that it is making a mockery of the whole aim of this – to improve safety for the players. It is also persuading casual followers of the game to switch off and look elsewhere for their entertainment because they don’t understand what is going on. What I would say is that I thought Barnes and television match official Tom Foley did a pretty good job in the final and communicated excellently with each other. But there is still little clarity, in my opinion, over what is a red, or yellow card, or no card at all. As for England, well apparently everything is rosy in the Borthwick/RFU garden after a third-place finish in the World Cup. I am sure they all headed home back across the Channel patting themselves on the back at a job well done, and that they made a good appointment in choosing Borthwick, especially considering the mess that his predecessor Eddie Jones made of Australia in a short time at the helm of the Wallabies. It takes someone special to trash two international rugby teams in the space of a year!
66
But as Lawrence Dallaglio so accurately said, England might have finished third at the World Cup but they are by no means the third best team in the world. I will reserve judgement on Borthwick until after the Six Nations in the New Year, when they will face a whole string of difficult matches – bar Italy perhaps – rather than benefitting from the ridiculously early seedings of countries for the 2023 World Cup. Of course, they were excellent in defeat to South Africa in the semi-final, but victories over Argentina (twice), Samoa, Japan, Chile and Fiji do little to suggest, in my opinion, that they are suddenly going to rival the likes of Ireland, France, NZ and South Africa at the top of the international game. I can’t see them hitting those heights until Borthwick changes his dour style of play, and I just can’t see that ever happening, but we shall see. It will go down as a very good World Cup – where pretty much all of the best matches were played in the quarter-finals – but now we can concentrate on domestic rugby, where Exeter Chiefs will have surpassed their supporters’ wildest dreams in their opening two home games of the season by sweeping aside last season’s two Premiership finalists Saracens and Sale Sharks. Let’s hope the dream continues.
NIGEL WALROND
TICKET INFORMATION EXETER CHIEFS V BRISTOL BEARS SUNDAY 5 NOVEMBER KICK-OFF 15.00
EXETER CHIEFS V GLOUCESTER SUNDAY 19 NOVEMBER KICK-OFF 15.00
EXETER CHIEFS WOMEN V BRISTOL BEARS WOMEN SUNDAY 19 NOVEMBER KICK-OFF 15.00
WEST CENTRE WEST wings south stand centre south stand wings east terrace centre east terrace wings north terrace centre north terrace wings
ADULT STUDENT CHILD
£80.00 £80.00 £80.00
ADULT STUDENT CHILD
£70.00 £70.00 £70.00
ADULT STUDENT CHILD
£56.00 £40.00 £26.00
ADULT STUDENT CHILD
£40.00 £30.00 £20.00
ADULT STUDENT CHILD
£44.00 £30.00 £20.00
ADULT STUDENT CHILD
£40.00 £28.00 £17.00
ADULT STUDENT CHILD
ADULT STUDENT CHILD
east stand upper wings east stand upper centre
ADULT STUDENT CHILD
£65.00 £65.00 £65.00
ADULT STUDENT CHILD
£75.00 £75.00 £75.00
£47.00 £35.00 £21.00
£44.00 £32.00 £19.00
TICKETHUB.EXETERCHIEFS.CO.UK 67
WHAT’S ON AT SANDY PARK
WE HAVE A WHOLE HOST OF EVENTS COMING UP AT SANDY PARK TO TAKE US RIGHT UP TO CHRISTMAS!
COMEDY NIGHT
THE CHRISTMAS LUNCH
Exeter's biggest comedy night returns on Friday 10 November from 7pm.
We then bring together the Exeter Chiefs Foundation and Wooden Spoon Devon for this year’s Christmas Lunch on Thursday 14 December.
You can pre-order food with Thai green chicken curry, green vegetables and wild rice on the menu and a tofu vegetarian option available. Please note there will no food available on the night unless preordered. This is event is over to over-18s only. Tickets are £20 with food or £12 without. If you want to bring some friends, a table of 10 with food is £180 or £100 without.
CHRISTMAS PARTIES 2023 Enquire today to make sure you don’t miss out on hosting your Christmas Party at Exeter’s premier events centre. Prices start at £32 per person.
The Christmas
Lunch
T H U R S D AY 1 4 T H DECEMBER 2023 A R R I VA L 1 2 P M U N T I L L AT E C O M P E R E W I T H D AV I D F L AT M A N FOUR COURSE FESTIVE LUNCH F E S T I V E E N T E R TA I N M E N T
Join us for this fun-filled £85 PP festive afternoon to celebrate T I C K E T H U B . S A N D Y PA R K . C O . U K the Christmas season in style. We are thrilled to be joined by former England prop and TV pundit David Flatman as our host for the afternoon. TICKETS £800
TA B L E O F 1 0
The event will start at 12pm when guests will be treated to a sumptuous festive three-course meal. We recommend you book your carriages for 8pm. Tickets are £85 per person or £800 for a table of 10.
To book any of these events, please go to www.sandypark.co.uk/events.
69
TACKLE
YOUR TALENT STRATEGY
Photo from The Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final 2023
Talent scarcity is happening right now causing real shortages in every sector of the UK economy. Delivering a better employee experience is critical to attract, engage and retain the talent you need to grow and succeed. Gallagher is helping organisations and their people to feel different about work. Let Gallagher help you.
ajg.com/uk/employeebenefits-consulting/ THE GALLAGHER WAY. SINCE 1927.
E: sayhello@ajg.com T: +44 (0)20 7204 8990
Gallagher and Gallagher Employee Benefits are trading names of Gallagher Risk & Reward Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Not all business carried out by the company is regulated. Arthur J. Gallagher (UK) Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: The Walbrook Building, 25 Walbrook, London EC4N 8AW. Registered in England and Wales. Company Number: 1193013. FP900-2022b Exp 15.06.2023 | ARTUK-4318
CLUB PARTNERS WELCOME AND THANK YOU TO ALL OUR PARTNERS FOR THE 2023/24 SEASON
KEY CLUB PARTNERS
KEY SPONSORS
OFFICIAL SUPPLIERS