Three players sign Senior Academy contracts with Chiefs

A trio of aspiring young players have put pen to paper with Exeter Chiefs as director of rugby Rob Baxter cultivates talent for the future.

The group of youngsters comprises of backs Ollie Batson and George Newman as well as forward, Marlon Farouk-Roy.

Batson and Newman are both products of the well-established and proven Chiefs pathway. Both have come through the Chiefs age-grade ranks and have featured for Exeter College.

“It’s a very special moment to sign for Chiefs. I’m really grateful for the opportunity,” Newman said. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my first few weeks here and I look forward to continuing to learn and progress as a player.”

Strong performances have already earned Batson recognition from England as he is currently on tour in South Africa with the country’s U18 squad.

“It’s a really exciting time for me right now,” Batson said. “I feel genuinely privileged to have been given a Chiefs contract and to be selected for England U18 on top of that has been really special.

“I enjoyed my first taste of Chiefs life at the start of pre-season and I can’t wait to get stuck back in.”

Securing talent for the future is a big part of the longer-term development of the Chiefs squad and Baxter is excited to have signed the young duo.

“We’re delighted to announce senior Academy contracts for Ollie and George,” Baxter said. “Both lads have come through our academy pathway so are looking to continue on that track with progressing to the University of Exeter, onto loan clubs and then hopefully eventually here with Chiefs.

“They’re two very exciting young players, both who have featured with England at different age-grade levels and so we see a very bright future for them.”

Farouk-Roy took a different journey to Sandy Park having previously been part of the Saracens academy set-up at the StoneX Stadium in London. He has recently enrolled at the University of Exeter and the strong ties between EURFC and Chiefs brought him to the attention of Baxter and his fellow coaches.

“Marlon comes into the university, and he also has a lot of potential,” Baxter said. “Being a big, tall, rangy guy can sometimes pose as a challenge, so he’s got a bit of physical development to complete.

“He’s done parts of pre-season with us though, worked extremely hard and we’ve seen some development in him already. We’re excited to see what he can do during his time at the university as he continues to work with us too.”

Faouk-Roy is relishing the chance to work with both Chiefs and EURFC.

“I’m excited to join the Exeter family and utilise all the tools and opportunities around me to grow as a player. I can see big personal development and improvements in my future at this club, and I’m really looking forward to seeing what I can do.”

All three will spend substantial time with the first team this season as they look to develop and progress in their rugby journeys.