University of Exeter Rugby Union in action

BUCS Super Rugby players double up in Anglo-Welsh Cup.

University of Exeter students Tom Lawday and Jack Owlett represented Exeter Chiefs in their Anglo-Welsh Cup fixture over Cardiff Blues on Sunday 13th November.

Exeter dismantled Cardiff convincingly with a 62-25 victory in front of a crowd of nearly 10,000 people at Sandy Park which included a try from Tom and a senior debut for Jack. Regarding the occasion, Jack said:

“It was a great experience to be given such an opportunity. The atmosphere was unbelievable and great to be part of.”

Both players have progressed into the Chiefs ranks via a full pre-season and weekly training with the main Chiefs squad. They manage this in conjunction with full time academic studies at University where they receive a comprehensive High Performance support package as part of their Sports Scholarship.

The University of Exeter Sports Scholarship Scheme is one of the most prestigious in the UK, helping the best student athletes reach their full potential. The scheme provides an all-inclusive academic, lifestyle and sporting programme tailored to suit the needs of each individual athlete depending on their academic pathway.

State-of-the art training facilities, expert coaching, physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, sports science services and video analysis are all included within the scheme.

About the scholarship, Jack 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 players also represent University of Exeter Men’s 1s Rugby Union Team, who are current British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) Champions. This year, the team are competing in the brand new BUCS Super Rugby format, comprising of the eight best men’s University Rugby Union teams across England and Wales.

Craig Townsend, High Performance Manager, 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.”

Rugby Union is one of 9 focus sports at the University of Exeter and are defending BUCS champions. The University was awarded the accolade of being the The Times and Sunday Times Good Universities Guide 2016 Sports University of the Year. The University of Exeter is proud of it's excellence in sport reputation and thanks it's sponsors and supporters for their tireless efforts and contribution to our success. More information about the High Performance Programme is available online, or contact Craig Townsend at c.g.b.townsend@exeter.ac.uk 

Date: 21 November 2016