Dennis confirms Chiefs departure
By Mark Stevens
13/11/20
Dave Dennis says it’s with a heavy heart that he has called time on his four-year stay with the Exeter Chiefs to take up a new challenge in Major League Rugby.
The 34-year-old Australian international has tonight confirmed he will be heading to America to join up with LA-based franchise LA Giltinis on a two-year deal.
It brings to an end a fantastic spell in Devon for the imposing forward, who has helped the Chiefs to secure two Premiership titles, an Anglo-Welsh Cup, plus the European Champions Cup.
A hugely popular figure, both with his team-mates and supporters alike, Dennis admits this latest opportunity was ‘too good to turn down’ and he departs with the blessing of Chiefs’ Director of Rugby, Rob Baxter, who himself has praised the input the player has given since his move from the Waratahs back in 2016.
“My four years at Exeter has brought nothing but joy to me and my family,” said Dennis, who made 80 appearances for the Chiefs. “Although we have had some fantastic, on-field success during my time at the club, it is the friendships that I have formed that I will forever be grateful for.
“Exeter will always remain a special place for me and I look forward to seeing the club continue to grow moving forward. My thanks and that of my family go to all those who supported me throughout my time at the club.”
Moving forward, Dennis is relishing the next chapter in his career, adding:“I’ve committed to MLR for two seasons and it’s an exciting opportunity, something totally different to what I’ve done before.
“I’ve played for two proud clubs in New South Wales and Exeter with long histories, but in America I’ll be part of something new and that’s a good challenge.
“The other aspect is that our priorities as a family have changed, so it’s a chance to go home to Australia now before getting over to America in February. In between seasons I’ll be back in Australia and I’ll be able to work on some transitional stuff.”
The former Wallaby added: “Aside from playing for two more years, there’s a development officer role in America as well. There’ll be junior coaching with that, which is something I’m really interested in post-rugby so it’s a nice way of finding my way into it.
“There are a lot of different factors but this is perfect for where I am in my life. Although I’ll be sad to leave Exeter, it’s probably the right time with us becoming champions of England and Europe and it’s a really nice time to move on to something new.
“I’ve had a lot of lovely messages from staff, players and supporters over the last fortnight and it’s great to know that your contribution has not gone unnoticed. I’ve only been a small cog in an incredible time for Chiefs but I’m proud of it.”
Although sad to see Dennis depart overseas, Baxter says the former Wallabies star leaves with his blessing a glowing endorsement.
“I can’t speak highly enough of the influence, the performances and the input – both on and off the field – that Denno has provided over the last four years,” added Baxter. “From the day he stepped foot in the place, he has committed and bought into everything we are about as a club.
“What he has offered, not just in terms of being out on the pitch and playing, but off the field in helping bring through some of our younger players, his work on the social side, and his overall experience has been fantastic.
“Of course we would have loved to see him stay and see out the remainder of his contract but, at the same time, when an opportunity like this comes up for a guy like Denno, I have no issue whatsoever in working with him to ensure it’s the best move for both himself and his family. I’ve no doubt he will make a huge success of himself over in America, because that is what he has done both here and back in Australia before that.
“As a club, we wish him and his family the very best for the future.”