The world of women's rugby is abuzz with the news that PWR champion and Olympian, Deborah Wills, is making a move from Saracens to Exeter Chiefs. This transfer, ahead of the upcoming JAECOO Premiership Women's Rugby season, has sparked excitement and intrigue within the rugby community.
A Champion's Journey
Wills, at 35, brings a wealth of experience to the Exeter Chiefs. Her rugby career began at the age of 21, and since then, she has dominated the elite rugby sevens scene. With multiple seasons on the HSBC SVNS Series under her belt, Wills has achieved remarkable feats, including a Commonwealth Games bronze medal in 2018 and the honor of representing Team GB at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. Her impact on the sport is undeniable.
The Exeter Move
The decision to join Exeter Chiefs is a significant one for Wills. As an assistant coach at Exeter, Oli Bishop, highlights, Wills' addition to the team will bring immense value. Bishop believes that Wills' athletic prowess and her accomplished rugby skills will enhance the team's competitive program. He particularly emphasizes her potential impact in the wide channel, where her speed could be a game-changer.
What makes this transfer even more intriguing is Wills' connection to the West Country. As a Cornish native, Exeter Chiefs is her home PWR club, making this move a homecoming of sorts. Wills' enthusiasm for the opportunity to represent Chiefs with a talented group of players is palpable, and her ambition to hunt down the PWR title adds an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming season.
Impact and Culture
Beyond her athletic abilities, Wills' experience and presence will contribute to the team's culture and identity. Bishop believes that Wills' influence both on and off the pitch will be instrumental in shaping the team's style of play and creating an exciting brand of rugby that will captivate both supporters and players alike.
In my opinion, this transfer is a win-win situation. Wills gets to return to her rugby roots, and Exeter Chiefs gain a champion who will undoubtedly inspire and elevate the team's performance. It's an exciting development that showcases the growing strength and depth of women's rugby in the UK.
As we look forward to the 2026/27 season, one thing is certain: Deborah Wills' impact on the Exeter Chiefs will be felt both on the field and in the hearts of rugby enthusiasts across the country. This move is a testament to the power of women's rugby and the incredible athletes who continue to push the sport forward.
