City boss Gary Caldwell outlines pre-season plans

Exeter City boss Gary Caldwell says he’s feeling refreshed and ready to go as his squad returns for the start of pre-season.

The club’s young professionals report back to the Cliff Hill Training Ground today (Thursday 19 June), with senior players following on Friday (20 June). It marks the beginning of a six-week build-up to the new League One campaign – and Caldwell is clear on what’s required.

“Got a good tan for a Scotsman,” he joked. “I’m ready to go into the new season full of energy and full of hope. There’s always that sense of excitement when you come back. You look forward to what the season can bring.”

The first few days will focus on medicals and fitness testing – both in the gym and on the grass – before gradually ramping up intensity. Players have already been following individual programmes over the summer, and Caldwell says the data will help shape their training over the coming weeks.

“We want to see where they’re at physically, and then start to push things,” he told the Exeter City website. “Next week is when we begin proper football work and sharper running sessions.”

Next week’s schedule includes early-morning sessions – with players reporting in as early as 5.30am – designed to test both fitness and mindset.

“Let’s be honest, no-one wants to be up at that time,” Caldwell said. “But that’s the point – we want to see who handles uncomfortable moments. Because that’s what League One throws at you. We want to build players who can deal with the tough bits, not just the good days.”

It’s not just physical demands that will shape the weeks ahead. Caldwell’s approach places equal weight on social cohesion and mental resilience, with plans for team-building activities, time spent in the community, and shared challenges.

“There’ll be a parkrun, some off-pitch activities, and a chance for new players to get a feel for what Exeter is about. Being part of this club means more than just turning up for matches.”

While no signings have been announced yet, Caldwell confirmed that multiple offers are on the table.

“I know the fans are eager, and we’ve got names in the mix. But we’ve always said the same: we’ll be patient, and we’ll get the right people. They have to be good players, but more importantly, they have to be good people – the right fit for this club and this community.”

Regular Zoom meetings have continued throughout the off-season, with Caldwell, Marcus Flitcroft and the recruitment team reviewing targets weekly. The manager expects movement soon.

City’s pre-season schedule will look slightly different this year, with fewer friendlies and more internal 11v11 matches to allow for focused training blocks. A standout fixture will be the final friendly at St James Park against Swansea City – doubling as a testimonial for club stalwart Pierce Sweeney.

“It’s a chance to celebrate a proper club man,” Caldwell said. “Ten years at one club doesn’t happen often. We want to honour Sweenz – but also make it a real test ahead of the season.”

Caldwell says the goal over the next six weeks is to build more than just fitness.

“Yes, the players need to be sharp, but we’re also looking at psychological, social, tactical – the full package. The start of the season comes fast, and once you’re in it, you’re in. There’s no time to build once you’ve kicked off. So this is it – this is when we set the tone.”

He’s also aiming for a leaner squad this time around, targeting a 25-man group including promising development players.

“Last year the numbers crept up, for all sorts of reasons – injuries, late departures. This year we want a tighter squad, with clarity around roles and better balance.”

City fans will get their first glimpse of the squad at the annual Party at the Park on 28 June, which will also see the new home kit unveiled.

“It’s a big day for the club,” Caldwell added. “It’s about more than just football. We want to connect with the fans, spend time with them, and share the buzz of a new season. The support here is special, and it makes a difference.”