Exeter Chiefs have made their latest coaching appointment – and it’s a familiar face from England's age-grade setup.
The Premiership side have confirmed that former Newcastle Falcons head coach and current England U20 attack guru Dave Walder has joined their backroom staff with immediate effect.
New chapter begins after horror season
Walder arrives at Sandy Park as the club undergoes a major reset and rebuild following a difficult 2024/25 campaign that saw them slide down the table.
Speaking on the move, the 46-year-old said:
“I’m really excited to have the opportunity to come down to the Chiefs to work with a really talented group of players as well as a young, dynamic coaching group.
“It’s obviously been a really tough year for them results-wise, but the green shoots of growth are there. I’m excited to get them playing attacking rugby, scoring tries and helping get Chiefs back where they belong – competing for trophies.”
From Falcons legend to top-tier tactician
A fly-half during his playing days, Walder made over 100 appearances for Newcastle before transitioning into coaching back in 2014. He went on to lead the Falcons as head coach for eight years and also spent time at Bristol Bears as their senior backs and skills coach.
Baxter backs the move
Chiefs Director of Rugby Rob Baxter was full of praise for his new assistant, and confirmed Walder will be involved straight away as Exeter prepare for this weekend’s action.
“I’ve known Dave a long time. He did a fantastic job at Newcastle with relatively limited resources and always brought out the best in his group.
“He’s worked with some of our England U20 players and they’ve only had positive things to say.
“We’re delighted to have someone of his experience coming in to sharpen up our attack.”
Stacking the coaching ranks
Walder joins a refreshed coaching ticket at Sandy Park, linking up with Haydn Thomas (defence), Ross McMillan (forwards) and Ricky Pellow (skills and development).
The message from Chiefs is clear: it’s time to regroup, reload, and bring the fight back to the Premiership elite.
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