Statement: Exeter Chiefs confirms new head coach following awful season
Yesterday at 05:09 PM
Exeter Chiefs have confirmed a major restructuring of their coaching team, with Rob Hunter stepping up as Head Coach effective immediately.
This change comes as part of a strategic shift aimed at helping the club return to the top of domestic and European rugby.
Ali Hepher to Step Back and Transition into Development Role
After 16 years of service, Ali Hepher will step back from his Head Coach duties but will continue overseeing the backs and attack strategy until the end of the season.
From next season, he will move into a Senior Academy Transition Coach role, focusing on developing young talent and guiding academy players into the senior squad.
"I would like to thank Ali for his incredible hard work and dedication to the team and club over the last 16 years,"said Director of Rugby Rob Baxter.
"We've experienced some lows and enjoyed some incredible highs together, and he has been a key part of our successes. I know he's excited to return to development coaching, working with our best young players to get the most out of our talent pool."
Rob Hunter Takes the Helm
Hunter, who previously led the forwards, will now take on the Head Coach role. Baxter is confident that Hunter's leadership and innovative ideas will help steer the team in the right direction.
"I feel now, coming out of the Premiership Rugby Cup period, is the right time for us to start heading in a different direction with elements of our game," Baxter said. "Rob has a great appetite for the game and the challenges ahead. I believe a fresh burst of ideas and energy, along with his increased responsibilities, will bring out the best in him and prove successful for the club."
New Attack Coach Coming Next Season
Exeter will bring in a new attack and backs coach at the end of the season to introduce fresh tactical ideas and innovation. Baxter believes this move is essential as the club looks to evolve its attacking game.
"I feel a new attack coach with different ideas and practices will help us move in the right direction as we strive to return to the top levels of the domestic and European game," Baxter explained.
Coaching Continuity in Key Areas
While major changes are underway, there will be stability in some areas, with key coaching staff remaining in their current roles:
- Ross McMillan – Assistant Forwards Coach
- Haydn Thomas – Attack and Kick Battle Coach
- Ricky Pellow – Skills and Development Coach
Tony Rowe Fully Backs the Changes
CEO and Chairman Tony Rowe CBE is fully behind the decision to restructure the coaching staff and is eager to see the club take positive strides forward.
"I fully support Rob Baxter's decision to update the structure of the coaching staff," Rowe said. "I believe these changes will help us move the club forward and set us up for future success."
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Four uncapped England players Steve Borthwick should call up this summer
As Steve Borthwick looks to build depth in England's squad ahead of the next World Cup cycle, a summer series presents the perfect opportunity to blood fresh talent.
With several experienced names likely heading on the Lions tour, these four uncapped players deserve a shot to make their mark in the white jersey.
FOUR UNCAPPED PLAYERS:
Gabriel Ibitoye – Harlequins (Wing)
A lethal finisher with footwork to rival the best, Gabriel Ibitoye has been electric since returning to Harlequins after stints in France and Israel. The 26-year-old brings a unique blend of pace, power, and unpredictability that England's backline has sorely missed.
Ibitoye's ability to create something out of nothing makes him a nightmare for defenders, and his defensive work has also improved significantly. If Borthwick wants a dynamic threat out wide, Ibitoye is ready to answer the call.
Max Ojomoh – Bath (Centre)
A classy operator in the midfield, Max Ojomoh has been knocking on the England door for a while. With smooth distribution, intelligent running lines, and a solid defensive presence, the Bath centre offers a well-rounded skillset.
Ojomoh's ability to play at inside centre or shift to 13 gives Borthwick tactical flexibility, and his understanding of space makes him a creative link between the forwards and backs. With Ollie Lawrence a regular now, pairing him with Ojomoh could add another dimension to England's attack.
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