Football Academy scores historic double National Championship gold

Exeter College’s Football Academy secured a historic double success as both the Men’s and Women’s sides were crowned National Champions at the 2026 Association of Colleges (AoC) Sport National Championships in Nottingham.

This marks the first time in 20 years that an Exeter College football team has claimed the coveted AoC gold medal and represents a first-ever national title for the College’s Women’s Football Academy. With both teams lifting trophies, the achievement stands as one of the most significant moments in the Academy’s history.

To reach the national finals both sides progressed through their respective regional competitions, earning the right to represent the South West at the championships. At the tournament the Men’s team went unbeaten, drawing the opening game before winning their remaining eight matches, while the Women’s team also recorded eight wins from nine games, including a tightly contested 1–0 victory over Sunderland College in the final match.

Two Exeter College football players on a pitch — Women’s Academy Footballers Jas Barker (L) and Lily Dowling (R)

Lily Dowling is the women’s team captain. She plays centre back at the Academy and is studying BTEC Sport at Exeter College. Lily said:

“I was very proud of the team. I think we all worked so hard for it, and getting through the regionals was quite tough, so being able to win the whole competition was so good. It was nice vibes, everyone was up for it, the coaches were up for it, and it was exciting coming up against teams we’ve not played before from around the country.

“No (women’s) team at the Academy has done it before, so it kind of didn’t seem possible, and it was a big challenge. But I think now we’ve done it, it shows other people that they can go and win it if you want it that much.”

Jas Barker is a striker in the Women’s Academy side and is currently completing her BTEC Sport qualification at Exeter College. Jas said:

“I think we definitely deserved to win it. We’re really close as a football academy, so I think we wanted to work hard not just for ourselves, but for each other as well. I think we definitely deserved to win it.”

Asked who she told first after winning the championship, Jas said it was Lily, who missed the final after injuring her knee earlier in the tournament. She said:

“She (Lily) was in A&E, so we FaceTimed Lily, and she was in the X-ray room. We were screaming down the phone at her, so she couldn’t reply.”

Two Exeter College football players on a football pitch — Men’s Academy Footballers Zack Williams (L) and George Murford (R)

Zack Williams plays on the wing for the Men’s Academy and is due to complete his A Levels in Business, Economics and PE this year. He described winning the championships as one of his standout memories from his time at Exeter College. Zack said:

“We had a shaky start to the season and didn’t think we were going to get much from it, so to get this and go unbeaten is definitely something to remember. I think we all just wanted it more, and we all just worked hard for each other. Everyone was behind each other, and it felt like we were all together as a team.”

Men’s Football Academy striker George Mulford is completing his BTEC in Sport and Exercise Science at Exeter College. He said:

“It’s not something I thought I’d ever win, but it’s one of the best feelings, considering it’s against the best teams around the country. We started the season a bit shaky, and then we managed to pull it back and actually win the nationals as well. That made it a lot better overall.

“The whole journey back, the vibes were really high. Nobody was low, everyone was in a really good mood the whole time, and everyone was just happy we managed to win it.”

Two AoC trophies on a football pitch at Exeter College

Jack Gill, Deputy Head of Faculty for Sport and Physical Education at Exeter College, said:

“We are incredibly proud of both our Men’s and Women’s Football teams. To see them both achieve gold at the AoC Sport National Championships is a testament to their attitude, commitment and skill. This double success highlights the strength of football at Exeter College, as well as the culture of excellence and high standards within our programme.

“This is a fantastic way to end the season and a well-deserved reward for the hard work and progress shown by players and staff across both teams. The men’s team faced a challenging start to the season, losing their first three games, but showed great resilience to bounce back, to finish third in the Tier 1 league, and go on to win at nationals, making it a truly outstanding season.

“The College’s Football Academy, delivered in partnership with Exeter City FC Academy and Exeter City Women, continues to play a vital role in developing talented students, providing them with opportunities to excel both on the pitch and, importantly, in the classroom.”

This season, Exeter College has relaunched its Women’s Football Academy in partnership with Exeter City Women, creating an enhanced pathway for aspiring female footballers. The renewed collaboration has introduced weekend playing opportunities, with students competing in the Junior Premier League at Exwick Sports Hub on Saturdays.

This development helps provide a clear progression route into the Exeter City Women’s First Team. Notable alumni include current captain Bow Jackson and vice-captain Leah Burridge, as well as current Exeter College student Georgia Vaccaro, who scored the winning goal in City’s 2–1 victory over Gwalia United at St James Park on Sunday 26 April.

In total, 79 Exeter College athletes travelled to compete at this year’s AoC Sport National Championships, representing seven sports overall. This year’s Exeter College results are:

Men’s football – 1^st

Women’s football – 1^st

Netball – 2^nd

Mixed hockey – 2^nd

Women’s tennis – 3^rd

Men’s rugby sevens – 3^rd

Find out more about Exeter College’s Sports Academies online.

Ten Exeter College football players hold up a trophy — Exeter College’s AoC Championship-winning Men’s Football team

Women’s Cricket Academy creates pathways for aspiring players

Exeter College has launched Devon’s first Women’s Cricket Academy based at a non‑fee‑paying college, offering an exceptional new opportunity for young female cricketers to develop their cricketing potential alongside their academic studies.

Ahead of a busy summer season the side is actively recruiting new players. This will begin with trials on Thursday 30 April at Buzz About Cricket’s indoor facility in Cullompton, and aspiring players joining the College this September are now being encouraged to register their interest.

Until now, high‑level cricket academies for young women in the county have largely been based within independent schools. By launching this programme, Exeter College is widening access to professional‑standard training and supporting talented players who may not previously have had a clear route into the performance pathway.

The launch comes at a time of significant national growth for the women’s game. In 2025, the number of women’s cricket teams across England increased by 18% compared with the previous year, while the number of clubs offering girls’ cricket rose by 13%. Exeter College’s Women’s Cricket Academy aims to build on this momentum by providing committed club‑level cricketers with an accessible pathway to progress and excel.

Libby Hooper, a current player in Exeter College’s Women’s Cricket Academy set-up, said:

“I joined the academy because I wanted to push my cricket further and be part of a team that’s passionate about improving. It’s opened up opportunities to play at a higher level and grow in confidence. I’m excited to keep progressing, compete in more games, and see what I can achieve in the future.

“This is what future cricketers can do and achieve when you start to train and play. It’s all about having fun and developing as a group to enjoy your time in the academy.”

Lily Innes, another player in the Academy, said:

“I’m absolutely buzzing for the season ahead as part of the women’s cricket academy. I’m especially looking forward to competing in matches, developing as a player, and representing the academy at a higher level alongside the squad.

“This is exactly why I joined – to improve my skills and be part of a supportive, encouraging environment. Opportunities for women in cricket have risen significantly since I first started playing, therefore it’s extremely exciting that Exeter College is investing in the women’s game.”

Tammi Vukusic, Exeter College Women’s Cricket Academy Lead, said:

“We’re incredibly proud to launch a programme that gives young women access to high-quality coaching and a clear pathway into performance cricket. Momentum for women’s and girls’ cricket in England has been growing phenomenally, but academy opportunities have largely only been available in fee-paying settings. We’re committed to ensuring talented players outside of these settings in our region can develop their skills without barriers.

“This academy reflects the ambition and passion we see in our learners and across the women’s game. By combining professional standard training with outstanding academic support, we’re creating an environment where students can thrive both on and off the pitch. We’re so excited for the summer and seeing this programme build in years to come.”

Cricket Academy learners follow structured training programmes designed to fit alongside their academic studies, including twice‑weekly sessions with experienced coaches, among them Andrew Buzza of Buzz About Cricket. Training will take place at a purpose‑built indoor facility in Cullompton and at the University of Exeter, giving learners access to high‑quality, specialist cricket environments.

Following April’s trials, academy players will compete against sides including King’s College Taunton, Exeter University and Exeter Cricket Club. Learners will also benefit from a behind‑the‑scenes visit to Somerset County Cricket Club and a five‑day end‑of‑season tour to Guernsey in June 2026.

To help cover the cost of the Guernsey tour, the College is seeking sponsorship from local businesses, community partners and cricket organisations to invest directly in the future of women’s cricket in the region.

Club players interested in joining the Exeter College Women’s Cricket Academy, and businesses wishing to discuss sponsorship opportunities, are encouraged to get in touch. For more information, email tammivukusic@exe-coll.ac.uk.

Year 11 students wishing to apply for the academy can contact SPECricketApplicant@exe-coll.ac.uk.

Hundreds of school children welcome Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy to Exeter College

Hundreds of schoolgirls from across the region welcomed the Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy to Exeter on Monday 30 March when it visited Exeter College as part of its national tour of host venues.

Around 250 children from across Devon attended Exeter College’s Centre for Rugby at Flowerpots in Exwick, where they took part in rugby training sessions on the 3G pitch, delivered by Exeter Chiefs Community coaches and current Exeter College students.

The visit to Exeter College was the latest leg of the trophy’s national tour and formed part of a wider celebration recognising Exeter’s role as a host city for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup. Exeter hosted seven matches – including two quarter finals – played at Sandy Park during the tournament last year.

Alongside the on-pitch activities the Lord Mayor of Exeter, Cllr Anne Jobson, hosted a reception at the Centre for Rugby to thank everyone involved in supporting the city’s role in the global event.

Guests included the Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, David Fursdon, Chief Executive of Exeter Chiefs, Tony Rowe, and Mike Blakely, Exeter and North Devon Colleges (ENDC) Group Executive Director of Partnerships and Apprenticeships.

Six people pose infront of a trophy at Exeter College — (L-R) David Reed MP, Steve Race MP, Tony Rowe OBE, Cllr Anne Jobson, David Fusdon, Mike Blakely

Mike Blakely, ENDC Group Executive Director of Partnerships and Apprenticeships, added:

“As a huge rugby fan myself I want to thank the Rugby Football Union and Exeter City Council for organising what was a brilliant tournament last year, with some fantastic matches at Sandy Park.

“While the tournament may have wrapped up last September, the impact is clearly still being felt, especially here in Exeter. The Women’s Rugby World Cup didn’t just showcase elite sport; it created real momentum for the women’s game, boosted the local economy, and strengthened collaboration across organisations, including Exeter Chiefs, Exeter Saracens RFC, Topsham RFC and Exeter Athletic RFC.

“Most importantly, it continues to inspire the next generation. With young people engaging directly with the sport and seeing first-hand the opportunities it can open up. Our women’s rugby team continues to grow, and the player development pathway is buzzing with some exceptional talent.”

Cllr Anne Jobson said:

“It was an absolute privilege to be a host city for the Women’s Rugby World Cup. We thoroughly enjoyed looking at the trophy, meeting the players, having a wonderful opening ceremony at the Cathedral, hosting the New Zealand Black Ferns in the Guildhall and the family fun day at the Quay, which was enjoyed by everybody.

“We were privileged to be chosen as a host city and Sandy Park as a host venue for what was truly a sporting spectacle. These events held at the Cathedral, Guildhall and the Quay will long live in the memory.

“The tournament undoubtedly delivered a transformational impact on the game, inspiring female participation in rugby through the success of the tournament and in turn the growth of girls’ rugby across the region.”

Tony Rowe CBE, Chief Executive of Exeter Chiefs, said:

“The Women’s Rugby World Cup was fantastic for Exeter. There was a lot of planning involved which was a joint effort all the way through, and I can’t speak highly enough of everyone in Exeter who was part of organising the tournament.

“It is great to hear that it was such an economic success for the city as well as from a sporting perspective – everybody gained from it.

“To see all the youngsters playing rugby today at this fantastic facility run by the College is absolutely brilliant.”

Since its opening in 2025 Exeter College’s Centre for Rugby has played a key role in developing female rugby talent across the region. The facility is used by hundreds of girls and women every week, including Exeter College’s highly successful women’s rugby academy teams, Exeter Chiefs Women and community clubs.

As well as inspiring more young people to take up the sport, the Women’s Rugby World Cup delivered a significant economic boost to Exeter. Across the tournament, Sandy Park welcomed 58,700 spectators, contributing an estimated £31.7 million to the city’s economy.

Exeter College sponsors Exeter City FC for historic FA Cup tie

Exeter College is proud to be the sleeve sponsor for Exeter City FC’s historic Emirates FA Cup third‑round clash away to seven-time winners Manchester City on Saturday, 10 January 2026. It’s a huge occasion for the club and the city, with 7,800 supporters making the trip to Manchester, and the College is delighted to show its support both on and off the pitch.

The connection between Exeter College and Exeter City runs deep. Many students and staff have links with the club, and this sponsorship for such a significant fixture celebrates the strong ties between two of the city’s most recognisable organisations.

That relationship also extends to education and player development, with longstanding links with the Club’s partner charity Exeter City Community Trust and Exeter City Women. This partnership includes Exeter College’s Women’s Football Academy, which provides elite training alongside outstanding academic opportunities for ambitious female footballers.

In the build-up to the match colleagues from Exeter College’s sport faculty visited the Grecians’ Cliff Hill Training Ground to watch a training session and meet the players as preparations continued for this landmark game.

Alex Boyle, Head of Sport at Exeter College, said:

“We’re incredibly proud to support our local team in this historic fixture! Exeter City FC is such an important part of our community, and with so many supporters, staff, and players having links to Exeter College our connection to the club runs deep, and we’re delighted to back the team on and off the pitch on Saturday.

“From everyone at Exeter College – good luck on Saturday! We’re right behind you, go out there and do our city proud!”

Tom Wenborn, Commercial Sales and Relationship Manager at Exeter City Football Club, said:

“Exeter College’s support for this landmark occasion reflects the strong, longstanding relationship between our two organisations.

“Exeter College is a valued partner and an important part of our city, and it’s fantastic to have their support for such a special occasion. The relationship between the club and the College is built on shared values around opportunity, development and community, and we’re proud to showcase that partnership on this stage.”

Football shirt sleeve with Exeter College sponsorship

Exeter College Hosts Junior Premier League Girls Teams

Exeter City Community Trust and Exeter College look forward to welcoming Tottenham and Crystal Palace to the Exwick Sports Hub this November as part of the ever-growing programme for women’s and girls’ football here in Exeter.

The Exeter City Junior Premier League U15 girls team is one of three sides representing the city in England’s largest national youth football league, which includes 2,500 teams, and places an emphasis on player development in order to combine the best aspects of grassroots football and academy setups.

The team is managed by the Exeter City Community Trust as part of their wider girls’ development centre programme, which provides opportunities for young players of all ages to develop their technical and tactical, psychological, physical, and social skills in a professional, engaging, and supportive environment.

The development centre is led by Exeter College alumni and former Exeter City Women’s Football Club manager, Aaron Wakely, who works in partnership with the College to deliver our Women’s Football Academy.

Speaking on the partnership and the upcoming fixtures, Aaron Wakely said that “the partnership between Exeter College and the Community Trust has played a transformational role in the development of women’s and girls’ football here in Exeter.”

“In recent years it’s been a privilege to work with the College and see the rapid progress made at all levels of the game, which has resulted in several players graduating from our development centre and the College Academy to represent the football club’s women’s team at the senior level with great success.”

“The JPL is the most recent addition to our wider women and girls’ programme, and Tottenham and Crystal Palace’s visits show the energy and ambition that we have for the game and will be a fantastic opportunity to showcase the talent that we have here in our part of the country.”

“Given all that we have done in partnership with the College in the past few years to grow the game and support young people on and off the pitch, it’s perfect that we will be hosting these fixtures at the hub and I’m sure that it will be a positive experience for all involved, not least the players, who are the driving force behind all that we do.”

Alex Boyle, Head of Sport at Exeter College, commented; “It’s a real pleasure to be hosting the Exeter City Junior Premier League U15 Girls team for two high-quality fixtures against internationally renowned football clubs, Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace. Our strong relationship with Exeter City Community Trust and Exeter City Football Club ensures we continue to support women’s and girls’ sport, from under-16 football right through to the Exeter City Women’s first team.”

“I hope the players thrive in both fixtures and enjoy experiencing the College environment, inspiring them to work towards studying at Exeter College and joining our Women’s Football Academy in the future.”

Triumph on Two Fronts: Exeter College Shines in National Rugby and Hockey Championships

The Rosslyn Park 7’s tournament, known as the largest 7-a-side tournament globally, witnessed over 14,000 boys and girls competing fiercely. Among them, two teams from Exeter College entered into the fray, each aiming for glory in their respective categories.

In the Girls U18 ACE competition, dubbed the top tier for girls U18, our blue team geared up for intense battles. Drawn into Pool B against other AoC Performance College teams, including Henley College (Ealing Trailfinders), Loughborough College (Loughborough Lightning), Oaklands College (Saracens Rugby), and Worthing College B (Harlequins), our squad faced rigorous challenges. However, they displayed exceptional skill and fitness, eventually clinching victory against Worthing College A, the Harlequins Academy, in the final with a commanding 20-7 scoreline. Tilly Pulfer’s blazing speed earned her a hat-trick of tries, while Charlotte Wreford’s masterful control and strategic play earned her the title of player of the tournament.

Simultaneously, in the Girls U18 Open competition, our team in pink and black took on the challenge. Placed in Pool K on day one, they fought fiercely, securing a spot in the next round by finishing second, despite a narrow loss to Peter Symonds. Their determination shone through as they progressed to day two, ultimately triumphing in the final against Samuel Whitbread Academy with a 19-5 victory.

Meanwhile, in another sporting arena, Exeter College’s men’s hockey team showcased their prowess in the England Hockey Notts Sport Schools Tier 3 National Championships. After battling through the Devon and West of England rounds, they faced off against the nation’s best.

Their journey to victory was hard-fought. A crucial 2-1 win against Sevenoaks propelled them to the top of the group, with goals from captain Innes Rose-Price and Ronnie Horne securing the victory. Subsequent victories against Royal Russell and Sandbach solidified their place in the elite final. In a nail-biting final showdown, goals from Sol Bloomfield and Zach Simons, coupled with resilient defending from Tristan Peatt and Jacob Murphy, led them to a 2-1 victory over Worksop, clinching the coveted silverware.

Both on the rugby field and the hockey pitch, our teams showcased not only their skill and fitness but also their unwavering determination to emerge victorious, etching their names on numerous trophies of sporting excellence.

Find out more about our Sports Teams at our next Open Event on Wednesday 24 April.

Exeter College Athletes Shine on International Stage

Exeter College is celebrating an array of sporting stars as numerous students represent their country in various sports, both at home and abroad. This proud roster of talented athletes showcases the College’s dedication to fostering a culture of sporting excellence and supporting students in achieving their athletic dreams.

One such standout is Harriet King, Amelia Baines and Ruby Hatherly, competing in the AP Race International at the prestigious London Aquatics Centre for Great Britain. This event offers the next generation a platform to race alongside current Olympic and world champions, promising an exhilarating weekend of competition.

Two female and one male sport students smile at the camera in their blue academy kit. — Mimi Allington, Charlie Francis, and Steph Vellacott played for the AoC Sport England Hockey Team.

Joining the ranks of accomplished athletes is Evie Webster, a force to be reckoned with in BMX Racing. With an impressive track record, including placements in the last three World Championships for Britain and notable finishes in European championships, Webster continues to impress.

Ben Yunnie, excelling in Slalom Skiing, has made his mark with consistent top-10 finishes in the dry slope circuit. His ambitions are now set on the FIS competition in Bormio, Italy, Yunnie aims to further showcase his talent on an international stage.

Freddie Barlow, part of the GB talent squad in Modern Pentathlon, recently participated in the ‘Olympic Hopes’ competition and has competed internationally in various championships, displaying remarkable skill in multiple disciplines.

Five female rugby players smile at the camera in their blue academy kit. — Charlotte Heath, Katherine Dyke, Mia Ryrie, Kayleigh Priest, and Tilly Pulfer (left to right) played for England U18 or Scotland U18 rugby teams.

The College’s representation spans across various sports, with individuals like Harry Brett and Harry Hebard joining England’s U19 indoor volleyball team, while Amelie Andrew secured a spot in the U19 British youth sailing team, triumphing in events across Europe.

Moreover, Exeter College proudly boasts talents like Mimi Allington, Charlie Francis, and Steph Vellacott in the AoC Sport England Hockey Team, showcasing the diversity and depth of sporting talent.

The rugby arena witnessed stellar performances from Jed Findley, Luke Evans, Nick Lilley, Charlotte Heath, Katherine Dyke, Kayleigh Priest, Tilly Pulfer, and Mia Ryrie, representing England’s U18 and Scotland’s U18 rugby teams respectively.

Daisy Liu and Innis Rose-Price played for the Great Britain U20’s ultimate frisbee teams.

Not to be outdone, Innis Rose-Price, Daisy Liu, Ioan Sharpe, CC Addison, Toby Bullock, and Aaron Hale, make waves in ultimate frisbee, squash, netball, sprint kayaking, and football, demonstrating the breadth of sporting talent nurtured at Exeter College.

These exceptional achievements stand as a testament to the College’s commitment to nurturing excellence in sports and providing a platform for students to shine on the international stage. As these athletes continue to reach new heights, they serve as inspirations for future generations, embodying the spirit of dedication, passion, and unwavering determination.

Find out more about the Sport courses and opportunities available at Exeter College at the next Open Event.