Exeter Chiefs unveil U23 squad as women’s rugby booms in the city

Exeter Chiefs Women have unveiled their inaugural U23 squad for the 2025/26 season, marking a milestone moment in the club’s player development pathway. The squad, led by new U23s coach and former club captain Poppy Leitch, includes 33 players, with eight young stars from the University of Exeter and Exeter College signing PWR Cup contracts for the pre-season tournament.

“This is the first season we have been able to offer a Cup-based contract,” Leitch told the Exeter Chiefs website. “The PWR Cup series is an amazing campaign that allows our pathway players to get a taste of professional rugby.”

Among those selected are University players Lilly Plowman, Eva Sterritt, Lucy Ward, Ellie Wood and Anna Woodman, alongside Exeter College talents Katherine Dyke, Reese Williams and Charlotte Wreford. Truro College also has five players named, with Leitch praising the wide talent pool and commitment to player development.

“The aim of this U23s programme is to support the person beyond the player,” Leitch added. “We’re not just preparing athletes -we’re nurturing future professionals.”

The news comes at a pivotal time for women’s rugby in the region. With the Women’s Rugby World Cup set to arrive in Exeter later this year, interest in the sport is surging. Community clubs like Exeter Saracens RFC are embracing the momentum, expanding their already successful girls' youth section and launching a new Women’s & Girls Coaching structure for 2025/26.

“There’s never been a better time to start rugby,” a club spokesperson said. “We’re building a culture where girls can grow their game and their confidence. It’s about creating a pathway from youth to adulthood—with fun, inclusivity, and real opportunities.”

Exeter Saracens have introduced a mentoring programme for aspiring female coaches, many of whom have come through the club’s own ranks. Director of Rugby Lee Western and Head of Girls Coaching Andrew Drayton are leading the effort to strengthen the club’s legacy and nurture new role models in the game.

With the Chiefs’ new U23s squad, a landmark tournament in the city, and grassroots efforts gaining serious traction, Exeter is fast becoming one of the leading lights in women’s rugby.

Interested in joining the rugby movement?
Exeter Saracens RFC welcomes new players of all ages and abilities. To get involved, email: exetersaracensrfc@outlook.com