This is Belonging - Exeter Chiefs promote inclusivity through Train Like a Chief camps

Exeter Chiefs is showcasing the power of inclusion in sport through its Train Like a Chief programme.

Aimed at girls of all abilities - from complete beginners to experienced players - the initiative is helping to remove barriers to participation, giving girls a space where they feel confident, included, and empowered to try rugby.

Developed in response to the rapid growth of the women’s and girls’ game, and the need for dedicated female rugby provision, the initiative strengthens links between Exeter Chiefs Women, local schools, clubs and the wider community to build a clear pathway for the next generation of players.

This focus on inclusion mirrors the wider movement across rugby: during 27–29 March, round 12 of the Gallagher PREM and round 16 of the PWR will see PREM Rugby, Premiership Women’s Rugby and their clubs unite for the first time to celebrate inclusivity across the game, to challenge outdated stereotypes and send a clear message: everyone is welcome, and anyone can play.

Themed ‘This Is Belonging’, the weekend will use every game, every stand and every platform to showcase that rugby is a place for all, no matter who you are or your background. Across clubs, pitches and communities, both leagues will spotlight the welcoming environment and the powerful role rugby plays in bringing people together.

This is Belonging is about pride and progress, ensuring existing fans and players feel proud to be part of the rugby family, while opening the door wider to welcome new audiences who want to see themselves represented and valued in the rugby community.

Across the country, PREM and PWR clubs and their foundations are deeply embedded in their communities, delivering programmes that strengthen social connection, increase participation across all ages and abilities, and support physical and mental wellbeing long after the final whistle.

Train Like a Chief is a prime example. Its a holiday camp programme designed to give girls of all abilities more opportunities to access high-quality rugby coaching in a fun, supportive, and inspiring environment.

Taking place during school holidays across multiple community venues, the camps are delivered at local clubs, schools, and familiar facilities to ensure accessibility. Led by qualified community

coaches alongside Exeter Chiefs Women’s players, the programme welcomes everyone, from complete beginners trying rugby for the first time to girls already playing in club environments.

The popularity of Train Like a Chief highlights the growing demand for girls-only rugby provision and the value of a dedicated, inclusive environment. Participants describe the camps as fun, welcoming, and inspiring, with the opportunity to train alongside professional female players being a major highlight.

Beyond skills, the programme fosters friendships, confidence, and a sense of belonging, with many players attending with teammates or returning independently. Emotionally, the camps help girls to feel represented and inspired by female role models, reinforcing that rugby is a game for all.

Tom Steer, community department manager at Exeter Chiefs, said: “Train Like a Chief is all about giving girls the confidence to play rugby in a supportive environment. It brings communities together, inspires participants, and develops skills and confidence, showing that rugby is an inclusive sport for everyone.”

Looking ahead, Exeter Chiefs is committed to expanding the Train Like a Chief initiative to meet growing demand and reach new areas across the region, ensuring more girls have access to high-quality rugby provision.

By building stronger links with schools, local clubs, and community organisations, Exeter Chiefs will continue to grow the female game collaboratively, strengthening the connection between the community and the elite game.

As rugby unites under the ‘This Is Belonging’ banner, programmes like Train Like a Chief demonstrate what inclusivity looks like in action. By giving girls of all abilities and backgrounds a safe, inspiring space to play, develop, and connect, Exeter Chiefs is demonstrating that rugby is more than a game - it is a community, a family, and a place for all.