A sentimental goodbye from your Chiefs

Saturday afternoon’s final home game of the regular season is bound to be emotional for players, coaches and supporters alike. So, we sat down with some of our leavers to learn their favourite moments before they bid their Sandy Park farewell.

Rusi Tuima is a little hesitant as he sits down in front of the camera, preparing to try to leave his childhood club behind after more than a decade.

He said: “My favourite moments have usually been in the changing room. Some of the conversations and ongoings that happen in there are brilliant. When morale is down, the changing room will always bring you back up.

“And to the supporters, just a big thank you. I’ve been here since I was 14 when I joined the academy, I’ve come up through the ranks and some of you have supported me all the way through my journey here. I’m super grateful for you all.”

Tuima will join Newcastle Red Bulls next season after more than 85 appearances as a Chief, during which time he hoisted the Prem Rugby Cup trophy in 2023.

Scott Sio is confident in what he wants to say when he takes his turn, a ‘thank you’ to the supporters is forefront of his mind. His departure after more than 80 appearances will be to sample a new competition, as the Samoan international will represent Cardiff Rugby in the BKT United Rugby Championship next season.

Sio said: “More than anything, I just want to thank the fans. Thank you all for welcoming not just me, but my fiancée Nara and our little one, Tavita. We’ve loved our time here. We can’t wait to finish on a high at home.”

Preparing to join Tuima in Newcastle after more than 35 Exeter appearances, Will Rigg’s face lights up as he remembers some of his favourite moments in a Chiefs shirt.

He said: “The European run we went on this season, that I was lucky to be involved in, has got to be up there with some of the best moments, especially that last-minute win over in Treviso.

“Through the highs and lows, the fans have always stuck by us as a group and me personally, so I’ll always be grateful for Chiefs.”

Hear from the trio and others in our full video here.

Don’t miss your chance to bid our 2025/26 leavers goodbye for one final time at Sandy Park. Secure your seat for our match against Saracens now.