Capstick targeting Chiefs return

By Mark Stevens
7/6/23

Richard Capstick says he’s ready to put months of injury hell firmly behind him as he looks to return to the Exeter Chiefs ranks this summer.

The 23-year-old forward has been sidelined since October with a serious shoulder injury that required extensive surgery.

Now, Capstick can see light at the end of the tunnel and the Taunton-born star is on course to join his team-mates later this month when they return to pre-season training ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.

“It’s been a long time, easily the longest period I’ve ever been out since I started playing,” said Capstick. “It’s been tough at times, especially watching the boys either out in training or playing in matches.

“You know injuries are part and parcel of the game, but when you get a long one like this, you just have to get your head down, work hard, do all the rehab stuff and just tick off the days.

“Thankfully, I’ve had great support from the likes of Coxy [Nick Cox] and all the physios. They help get you through some of the rough days, as do some of the other boys who are injured. They are in a similar position to you, but can be at a different stage in terms of coming back, so you kind of pick one another up at times.”

Capstick had initially hoped to have returned before the end of last term, but now he has his sights firmly set on the upcoming season, where the Chiefs will be looking to attack on all fronts.

“Pre-season starts in a few weeks and I can’t wait to get back,” added Capstick. “It feels like I’ve been in pre-season for months, but everyone knows this is the time where you get everything in place for the season ahead.

“As I said, I just want to get the frustration of the last few months out of me and look forward to what I hope will be a really big season for me and the club. Until my injury, I was pleased with how I was playing and I just want to get back to that level and playing regularly again.”