Exeter Chiefs star hangs up his boots to become coach - Ruck

Exeter Chiefs star hangs up his boots to become coach

Exeter Chiefs flanker Julian Salvi has retired from playing and been named defence coach by the club.

The experienced Aussie has this week confirmed he is calling time on his 15-year playing career and come next month he will be part and parcel of Rob Baxter’s coaching set-up, overseeing the Devon club’s defence for the upcoming 2018/19 campaign.

Having started his senior career initially back home with the Brumbies, it’s in England where the 32-year-old has really made a name for himself, featuring for Bath, Leicester Tigers and the Chiefs, whom he joined in 2015.



A proven performer on the field, his destructive skills around the breakdown, as well as his relentless workload and high tackle count have made him one of the Premiership’s household names over the years.

Equally his experience and knowledge of the game have been utilised recently not only by the Chiefs, but also by National League One side Plymouth Albion, where Salvi has been able to develop his own coaching skills over the past two seasons.

“Over the years I’ve been very lucky to have been involved in some fantastic teams and play alongside some great players,” Salvi told the club website.

He made 53 appearances for Exeter, having started his career with the Brumbies before spending the 2009-10 season at Bath.

Salvi’s involvement in the backroom team will enable director of rugby Rob Baxter to give up his dual role overseeing their defence.

“Anyone who has seen the Chiefs play and how we defend – we’ve got a very solid foundation in that respect – so it’s just a case of me trying to add to that in my new role,” he added.

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