Royal Marines kickstart Academy’s pre-season

Exeter Chiefs Academy were tested to their physical limits when they took part in a pre-season training day with the Royal Marines at the Commando Training Centre in Lympstone.

Designed to strengthen teamwork and build connections ahead of the new season, the day began with a series of talks before the players were put through their paces in the gym.

The afternoon saw the group take part in team-building activities before heading into the River Exe for a muddy endurance challenge.

Split into teams, the players were tasked with completing a series of exercises using large logs, which required them to rely on communication, teamwork and problem-solving to succeed.

Academy performance coach Ali Hepher said: “What a fantastic day for the lads and a brilliant opportunity for some of the team to get to know each other better. Days like this are hugely valuable as we continue to build a strong culture within the Academy.

“We are incredibly thankful to the team at the Commando Training Centre for working with us to organise such a brilliant training day. It is something we would love to continue developing and building on in future years.”