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.
Exeter College and Exeter City FC: Two Decades of Football Excellence and Community Impact
Now in its twentieth year, the partnership between Exeter College and Exeter City Football Club is a shining example of how education can make an impact in the community it serves and how that community can help shape young lives. This partnership boasts over 100 students on its academy teams, which includes men and women’s football, CEFA and futsal.
The partnership has made significant achievements during this time, including the growth in academy numbers, and investment in facilities for students and the community, providing a pathway for those aiming to be professional players, and a foundation degree linked with Exeter City Football Club and Plymouth Marjon University.
Showing no sign of slowing down, the College and the Club, with further support from the University of Exeter and Alphington Football Club, have recently invested in spectator seating, pitch side at the Exwick Sports Hub. The 3G pitch is used by Exeter City women’s side, also known as The Grecians, to play their home fixtures. The seating has provided fans with some much-needed shelter through the winter season and meant aspiring young players can come and support their team.
The new supporter seating at Exwick Sports Hub.
A new minibus for academy players has also benefited the teams, making their journey between college, training and away games, a lot easier.
Rob Bosworth, Deputy CEO, said;
“The partnership between Exeter College and Exeter City FC stands as a beacon of opportunity, guiding young talents toward both academic excellence and sporting achievement.
“Two decades of shared ambition, endless dedication, and boundless community impact has built not just a pathway to professional football, but a gateway to brighter futures for all our young people.”
The partnership between Exeter City and Exeter College combines training and matches with academic study. As well as having a performance pathway through the club’s apprenticeship scheme, the sports academy gives aspiring footballers the opportunities to develop their talents and focus on full-time academic or vocational courses, should they not quite break through as a professional player.
For over ten years Exeter City has provided the College with a member of its coaching staff to work alongside the college’s coaches to deliver training sessions. Currently this is Aaron Wakley for the Women’s Football Academy, Alex Bressington supporting the Men’s Football Academy, both who are College alumni themselves, and Chris Mcginn coaching Futsal and CEFA. The current Academy Operations and Performance Director, Arran Pugh is also a former Exeter College student.
Julian Tagg, Associate Director, President and Director of External Affairs at Exeter City Football Club, said;
“The partnership between Exeter City and Exeter College has gone from strength to strength over the last twenty years and really shows off the shared ethos, values and dedication of both organisations.
“All our young academy graduates have completed their education at Exeter College. In the past players like Dean Moxey and Ollie Watkins, who have gone on to achieve incredible things in their careers, and more recently seeing the likes of Sonny Cox go on to make his mark in the first team this season is both incredible to see and inspirational.
“The same goes for the likes of Connie Pengelly and Jess Sandland who have been crucial parts of the recent success of Exeter City Women. The College and Club work together to create well rounded young players.
“The new seated facility at the Exwick Sports Hub is yet another stride forward for the Women’s game and a celebration of what a partnership like this can produce.”
Sonny Cox celebrating scoring at Exeter City Football Club.
A recent success story of the partnership is Sonny Cox, Centre-Forward for Exeter City, he came up through the academy from a young age and recently scored the winning goal on Boxing Day against Wycombe Wanderers. He has just signed a new two year deal with the club. Aston Villa and England striker Ollie Watkins is another example to come through the League Football Education (LFE) programme. In addition, there is currently an amazing 8 alumni playing for the women’s squad, who currently sit 9 points clear at the top of the table. This includes Connie Pengelly and Jess Sandland who are both currently studying on the Foundation Degree in Football Coaching and Development.
Connie Pengelly in action for The Grecians at Exwick Sports Hub.
The Foundation Degree in Football Coaching and Development is in partnership with Exeter City Community Trust and is in its tenth year and continues to support students into football coaching and teaching jobs. A recent example is Daniel Leigh, who graduated from the College last year. Daniel won the Higher Technical Learner of the Year at the recent Exeter College Awards and now works full-time at Exeter City Community Trust.
Exeter College is pivotal in making sure that players who come through the academy, but are not offered scholarships, still have a pathway to returning to professional or semi-professional football, coaching, or attaining academic opportunities that continue into a wide variety of fields, supported by the college’s extensive programmes.
If you want to be a part of the success of the Academy’s history, come and find out more at the next Exeter College Open Event. Register now.
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.
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.
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.
Exeter College students help the South West to glory at the AoC Sport National Championships
Students from Exeter College competed at the AoC Sport National Championships in Nottingham last weekend, coming home with three gold and three silver medals as they helped the South West region to finish in 1st place.
Over 60 students and staff travelled to the University of Nottingham where they battled it out against athletes from colleges across England and Wales during the three-day event. They competed in a wide range of sports including Women’s Rugby 7’s, Netball, Basketball, Men’s Rugby 7’s, Tennis, and Cross Country.
AoC Sport Director of Sport and Student Experience Dean Hardman said:
“It goes without saying that the past two years have been extremely difficult for everyone and especially young people. We were therefore delighted to see the return of the AoC Sport National Championships for the first time since 2019 and the much-needed opportunity for our talented athletes from across the country to compete against each other at this fantastic event.
“Given all the challenges colleges have faced throughout the pandemic, it is outstanding to see so many join us in Nottingham and to see so many students enjoying their sport and its many benefits. It has been a privilege to host them.”
Silver medals were earned in Men’s Rugby 7’s, only missing out on Gold on a head-to-head rule, Cross Country, and Tennis. Amazing resilience and teamwork were shown by Netball, Women’s Rugby 7’s and the Barbarians South West Women’s Basketball team, to bring home gold medals.
As well as individual glory, the teams were aiming to accumulate points for their region and win the prestigious Wilkinson Sword trophy. After an intense competition, the South West region were presented winners of the Wilkinson Sword with a total of 140 points, the first time the region has won the coveted title since 2016. Yorkshire and Humber claimed the runners-up spot with 127 points and the South East came in at third place.
Sports Academy Manager at Exeter College, Chris Wall said:
“It’s outstanding to have the National Championships back after a period of 2 years without them. All our students have enjoyed the regional qualifying competitions and those that were rewarded by winning had an amazing experience in Nottingham. Even more pleasing was how they conducted themselves and performed. Let us hope this remains an annual event for the foreseeable future.”
More than 1500 students took part in 12 different sports at the University of Nottingham and surrounding areas. The event was brilliantly supported by 282 staff, 91 colleges, 45 student volunteers, countless officials, not to mention the AoC Sport team.
League Table: Wilkinson Sword competition
Region
TotalPoints
FinalPosition
South West
140
1st
Yorkshire & Humberside
127
2nd
South East
121
3rd
East
107
4th
West Midlands
101.5
5th
East Midlands
85.5
6th
North West
81.5
7th
North East
59.5
8th
London
52
9th
Wales
27
10th
Exeter College help South West top AoC Sport National Championships table
Exeter Chiefs Women’s Side Boosts Exeter College Rugby Academy
Exeter College’s Ofsted Outstanding offer to the region’s top young rugby talent received a huge boost with the news that Exeter Chiefs’ newly launched professional women’s side received approval to join the Tyrrell’s Premier 15s League.
The agreement to join the league rubber stamps the launch of Exeter Chiefs’ women’s team and provides fresh impetus to Women’s Rugby Academy at Exeter College.
Exeter College has been offering the Women’s Rugby Academy education provision in partnership with Exeter Chiefs for three years, with students given the chance to pursue a career in professional rugby while receiving exceptional education with the College.
Following on from the success of the Men’s Exeter Chiefs Rugby Academy at Exeter College, the Women’s provision has grown in popularity since its launch three years ago and now almost 50 students are receiving both top class rugby coaching as well as Ofsted Outstanding education.
The creation of a fully-fledged women’s professional rugby side in Exeter has opened new opportunities for the South West’s finest female rugby players to remain in the area and pursue their career in professional sport while also receiving top class post-16 education.
Exeter Chiefs Women’s Head Coach Susie Appleby, who won 65 caps for England during her playing career, said, “It’s an incredibly exciting time to be a young female player in the South West. Exeter College already has an excellent rugby programme, which is crucial to the success of Exeter Chiefs Women.
“Exeter Chiefs will be supporting this programme; our players will be coaching, helping with analysis and also in the gym. We want female players to experience a professional training environment from an early age, and the Exeter College Academy provides this opportunity.
“We hope players graduating from the academy will be the next Exeter Chiefs stepping out on to Sandy Park and ultimately into an England shirt.”
In addition to students’ academic studies with Exeter College, Rugby Academy pupils take part in first-rate training regimes embedded into their timetable to ensure that their sporting prowess matches their academic progression. With state-of-the-art gym facilities opened in 2019, students can also get ahead in the gym when not in the classroom or on the pitch.
Exeter College Sports Academy Manager Chris Wall said, “We’re all thrilled that Exeter Chiefs are forging ahead with their plans for a women’s professional side.
“With the Chiefs’ influence and popularity, I’m hoping that this will not only help inspire our current students about the levels of the sport they can reach, but also help develop that next generation of women’s rugby players and raise their aspirations to a possible career in professional rugby if you’ve got the talent and work ethic.
“Our Academy players will be supporting the roster of players that are available to the Chiefs’ side and will get the chance to really interact and see what it’s like for the current professionals in the game. I can’t wait to see more positive benefits from this partnership come to fruition in the coming years.”
Sports Academy students at Exeter College have varied study options and students travelling from further afield could opt to stay in the College’s Clock Tower boarding accommodation, complete with ensuite bedrooms and communal social spaces. Support on travel is also available through the College’s Travel Scheme and there’s a wide variety of course options available for students taking part in Sports Academies.
If you have applied for the Sports Academy or intend to do so, Exeter College will be holding performance trials once the College reopens and the current situation regarding the Coronavirus pandemic allows it.
