Try scorers as students join Exeter Chiefs in Anglo-Welsh Cup

Tom Lawday and Jack Owlett, students from the University of Exeter, represented Exeter Chiefs in a match against Cardiff Blues on Sunday 13 November, as part of the Anglo-Welsh Cup premiership.

The Chiefs triumphed with a 62-25 victory in front of a crowd of nearly 10,000 people at Sandy Park, Exeter.

Tom Lawday, 23, is in his third year of studying BSc Exercise and Sport Sciences. He has supported the Exeter Chiefs on a number of occasions, and successfully scored a try in the match against Cardiff.

He said: “It was a great experience to be given such an opportunity. The atmosphere was unbelievable and great to be part of. I've learned so much. So happy to have been given the opportunity and hopefully there will be more to come.”

Both Tom and Jack have progressed into the Exeter Chiefs ranks via a full pre-season and they take part in weekly training with the main Chiefs squad.

Jack Owlett, 21, is in his third year of studying BA Business and Management with Industrial Experience. The successful match on Sunday marked his senior debut with the Exeter Chiefs. He continually manages to balance his academic responsibilities with his sporting endeavours.

He said: “My scholarship allowed me to be away for long periods of time last year and still manage to maintain my work-sport balance. It has also allowed me to develop as a player with all the support structures such as the Athlete Development Centre.”

Both Tom and Jack received a Sports Scholarship from the University, designed to help the best student athletes reach their full potential.

The two students also represent the University of Exeter Men’s 1st Rugby Union Team, who are the current British Universities & Colleges (BUCS) Champions.

This year, the team is contending in the brand new BUCS Super Rugby league, which will see eight top-class student teams from across the country competing against each other.

Craig Townsend, High Performance Manager at the University of Exeter Sport Centre said: “This is a great experience for Jack and Tom to be involved in the Chiefs 1st team for the Anglo-Welsh Cup. Playing at this level will benefit their own individual development massively and transferring their skills developed at this level brings added benefits to the University 1st team in BUCS Super Rugby.