The Exeter Chiefs and Saracens are set to face off in a crucial Gallagher Premiership match, with the top four spot on the line. This encounter holds significant historical weight, as it marks the 16th anniversary of their first top-flight meeting on October 30, 2010. That initial clash, played at Vicarage Road, Watford, saw the Chiefs emerge victorious with a 23-9 win, thanks to a stellar performance from fly-half Ryan Davis, who scored 18 points on his Premiership debut. This triumph marked a pivotal moment in Exeter's journey, as they claimed their first-ever away win in the top-flight.
The article delves into the post-premiership careers of several key players from that historic match. Luke Arscott, the full-back, has transitioned into a coaching role, serving as the head coach of Dings Crusaders in Bristol and managing operations for a property firm. Andy Higgins, a winger, has ventured into event management and hospitality, taking on the role of tournament director for the Rosslyn Park National Schools 7s. Phil Dollman, the centre, now works as a sales representative for Stryker, a medical equipment manufacturing firm.
Bryan Rennie, a Scotland A centre, has made a notable move to Hong Kong, where he co-owns RugbyTots Hong Kong and serves as the executive director of the Hong Kong Sevens. Mark Foster, a former winger, has taken on a senior finance role at LIV Golf, currently holding the position of chief financial officer at Centaur, a specialist insurance group. Ryan Davis, the fly-half, has returned to his roots, joining the coaching staff at Bath, the club where he began his professional career.
Haydn Thomas, a scrum-half, continues his association with Exeter Chiefs, serving as a coach at Sandy Park and Exeter University. Brett Sturgess, the loosehead prop, has taken on a coaching role with his hometown side, Kettering, and also serves as a director for the family decorating firm. Neil Clark, an England under-21 hooker, owns a golf and tourism complex in Helston, Cornwall, and has had two spells with Exeter.
Chris Budgen, a tighthead prop, has a unique background, having played for the British Army as a Lance Corporal in the Royal Welsh Regiment. Tommy Hayes, a lock, has returned to Ireland, where he has coached and worked in farming, following in the footsteps of his brother, the legendary Irish prop John. James Hanks, a former lock, has transitioned into a coaching role, becoming the master in charge of rugby at Dulwich College.
Tom Johnson, an England international flanker, has founded a health and wellbeing lifestyle brand and now works as a personal coach. James Scaysbrook, an England Saxons flanker, has moved into coaching, serving as the defence coach for the Ireland women’s team. Richard Baxter, a former Chiefs captain, holds the club appearance record and manages the family farm, while also being the brother of Chiefs boss Rob.
The article also mentions several players who have moved on from Exeter, including Simon Alcott, Ben Moon, Hoani Tui, Peter Kimlin, Chad Slade, Junior Poluleuligaga, and Josh Matavesi. These players have pursued diverse careers, with some transitioning into coaching roles, project management, and business ownership.
In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the post-premiership careers of the Exeter Chiefs players mentioned, highlighting their diverse paths and contributions to the rugby world. It serves as a reminder of the impact of that historic 2010 victory and the enduring legacy of the Exeter Chiefs in the Gallagher Premiership.
