Dave Walder joins Exeter Chiefs with immediate effect

Exeter Chiefs have confirmed that England U20s attack coach Dave Walder has joined the club’s senior coaching staff with immediate effect.

The appointment comes during a period of transition for the Devon club, who are undergoing a reset following an abject 2024/25 campaign.

“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,” Walder said.

“I can’t wait to get started; I’m looking forward to working with this squad. It’s obviously been a really tough year for them results-wise, but the green shoots of growth are there, so I’m excited to work with the group moving forward.

“It’ll be good to get them playing attacking rugby, scoring some tries and helping to get Chiefs back to where they belong, which is at the top competing for trophies.”

Walder, 46, brings significant experience to the role. A former fly-half with over 100 appearances for Newcastle Falcons, he transitioned into coaching in 2014 as the Falcons’ kicking skills coach.

He was later promoted to backs and attack coach, and became head coach in 2017. During his time at the helm, he oversaw the club’s promotion from the Championship and led them to their first Premiership semi-final.

He then served as Director of Rugby for the 2022/23 season before departing.

Walder has since worked with England’s U20 side and was most recently part of Bristol Bears’ set-up as senior backs and skills coach.

“We’re delighted that Dave has decided to join the club and it’s particularly good news that he’s been able to start immediately to help oversee this weekend’s game,” said Chiefs Director of Rugby Rob Baxter.

“I’ve known Dave a long time, and I really appreciate the work he put in for a lengthy period at Newcastle. I thought he did a fantastic job there with relatively limited resources. He always brought out the best in the group that he had working with him.

“More recently, he’s been working with some of our England U20 players, and those guys have only had positive things to say about him.

“It’s fantastic for us to have someone of his experience and capabilities joining us. Hopefully he’ll take us forward with our attacking game and how we want our backs to play. With him coming on board, we’re really looking forward to getting on with the remainder of the season.”

Walder joins a restructured Chiefs coaching group that includes Haydn Thomas (defence), Ross McMillan (assistant forwards), and Ricky Pellow (skills and development).