Exeter Chiefs appoint coach with international experience ahead of new PWR season

Exeter Chiefs Women have named vastly experienced Curtis Bradford as an assistant coach ahead of the new JAECOO Premiership Women’s Rugby season.

The Welshman arrives in Devon after three and a half years with Rugby Deutschland, where he most recently led the men’s XVs programme as director of rugby and served as head coach of the Germany women’s sevens squad. Previously, Bradford was the union’s skills coach.

Bradford has held coaching and development roles with the Welsh Rugby Union, Kuala Lumpur Tigers in Malaysia, NSW Waratahs and Austrian Rugby Union, alongside club coaching positions in Italy and Germany.

Upon his arrival at Sandy Park, Bradford’s main responsibility will be leading the defence.

Oli Bishop, Exeter Chiefs Women’s head coach, said: “Curtis really impressed us throughout both stages of the interview process. First and foremost, his values and beliefs align closely with the identity and culture we are building at Chiefs.

“It was important for us to bring in someone who not only shares our values but also has a clear vision for how we can continue to evolve as a team. Curtis demonstrated that throughout the process, and his ideas excited not just me and the coaching staff, but also the players who were involved.

“Curtis brings a wealth of experience from working with different teams across a number of countries. Most recently, he has been director of rugby for Rugby Germany.

“That experience has given him a strong understanding of the differences between the men’s and women’s games, but importantly, an appreciation of the opportunities within the women’s game to innovate, challenge traditional thinking and continue to push boundaries. That is something I’m particularly passionate about, and I think Curtis will bring a fresh perspective to our environment.

“From a coaching perspective, Curtis is very process-driven, logical and clear in how he approaches the game, both in his planning and his delivery on the pitch. Defensively, we already have a strong foundation at Chiefs, and I’m excited to see how he can build on that.

“We want to become a more aggressive and connected defensive side, one that doesn’t just stop the opposition but actively creates pressure, forces mistakes and generates more opportunities to transition into attack. I believe Curtis has the knowledge and approach to help us take that next step.

“Alongside leading our defence, Curtis will also work closely with our backs. Having another coach who can bring fresh ideas, challenge our thinking and invest in the individual development of our players will be hugely valuable, particularly as we look to grow the depth and quality within that group.”

Last season, Exeter finished third in PWR and lost out to eventual champions Saracens in their play-off fixture. Bishop’s squad start the 2026/27 season against Bristol Bears at Shaftesbury Park on Saturday 28 November in Round 2 of the new season.