Local lad Louie Gulley signs senior deal with Exeter Chiefs

Exeter Chiefs have secured the signature of rising star Louie Gulley on a senior contract ahead of the 2025/26 season, adding another homegrown talent to their squad.

The 19-year-old hooker, who was part of England’s World Rugby U20 Championship-winning side last year, has signed on the dotted line after a standout season with the University of Exeter.

Born and raised in Devon, Gulley started his rugby journey at Crediton RFC before progressing through the Chiefs Academy. He has since become one of the top-performing players in the BUCS Super Rugby league, notching up 19 tries in 35 appearances for EURFC.

Speaking about the move, Gulley said: “I’m unbelievably excited to have signed a contract. It’s truly a dream come true for me. Playing in the pre-season friendly double header was a cool experience and I’m looking forward to my future at Chiefs.”

His form also earned him a spot in England’s 2024 U20 Six Nations squad, where he marked his first start with a try against Italy at the Recreation Ground.

Chiefs Director of Rugby Rob Baxter is full of praise for the local lad: “Louie is one of our young players that we’re absolutely delighted to have under contract with the club. He’s having a great season with both the university and England U20.

“He’s a player we see with a bright future, someone who is likely to start featuring with the senior Chiefs group over the next 12 to 18 months. We’re planning on him becoming one of our core players going forward.”

Gulley joins fellow U20 World Championship winners Joe Bailey, Ben Coen and Kane James in signing senior deals at Sandy Park, underlining the Chiefs’ continued investment in young, local talent.