As we embark on a new Rugby season as a club, there is plenty of cause for excitement around the squad. The University programme is once again proving how vital it is for player development, with fourteen players from EURFC Women involved with Exeter Chiefs Women for this coming season.

Twelve of the fourteen have been awarded contracts with the Premiership side, such as the ever-present Niamh Orchard. After impressive performances for the University side all of last season; Orchard was contracted at the end of last season with an impressive spell with the England Under 20s as well and has now been re-contracted this season.

Maisy Allen, Katie Buchanan, and Nancy McGillivray have been awarded Red Roses Transitional contracts. These are the first-ever transitional contracts to be given out in the women's game. It is amazing to have all three given to EURFC Women members and contracted Exeter Chiefs Women players.

Notably, mentions also go to Lauren Summers and Lottie Dadds, who were both invited into the Exeter Chiefs Women's pre-season squad and have since been contracted.

Head Coach Poppy Leitch, Exeter Chiefs Women captain, spoke of her excitement: “What pleases me most is the alignment between the two programmes, which has allowed the players to fully absorb the professional environment and ultimately showcase their best selves. I hope they know how proud everyone at EURFC Women is of their achievements so far this season.”

Many of the EURFC players will hope to make the Exeter Chiefs squad for their early Premiership Women's Rugby Cup games against Worcester Warriors Women and Bristol Bears. In between, you can see them in the BUCS National League in the first fixture against Hartpury away on Wednesday, 4th October.