Middlebrooke heads into sixth season with Exeter Chiefs Women

Exeter Chiefs Women have signed Exeter-born Abby Middlebrooke for the 2025/26 season.

Currently in her second year of her sports science degree at the University of Exeter, Middlebrooke was part of the BUCS team that reached the semi-final this month while also helping to coach the Exeter Athletic Dakota Women’s team that won promotion to Women’s Championship South 1 league.

Loosehead prop Middlebrooke has been with Chiefs from the very start and made her debut against Sale Sharks in 2021.

Interim head coach Steve Salvin said: “Abby trains hard and is a real role model for young, up-and-coming players, especially those she works with at the university. She played for us for two seasons before heading to university, which is the reverse of the pathway taken by many of our players!

“But she has flourished in the BUCS league and is developing as a coach to the extent she attracted attention from another PWR club. I am very pleased she has chosen to stay with us.”

Middlebrooke began playing rugby at Exeter Saracens, captaining both their U15s and U18s sides and at county level. She has also represented England U18s, England U20s and England Women's Pathway squad.

She said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to have re-signed with Exeter Chiefs. Being from Exeter, this club truly feels like home. It’s such a special feeling to represent my hometown; running out in front of friends, family, and a community that’s supported me from the very start means everything. I’m excited for the opportunities ahead and to keep growing alongside some of my best friends, with the incredible support of the Chiefs family behind us.”