Exeter Chiefs: Rob Baxter entrusted to fix ‘clear disconnect’ as CEO issues damning statement
Exeter Chiefs director of rugby Rob Baxter has been handed front-line coaching duties until the end of the season
Exeter Chiefs chief executive Tony Rowe has cited the ‘clear disconnect’ between the players and coaching staff as the reason behind the dramatic suspension of Rob Hunter and Ali Hepher.
The pair were both relieved of their duties following Sunday’s 79-17 thrashing at the hands of Gloucester, with director of rugby Rob Baxter being handed front-line coaching duties until the end of the season.
‘There has been a clear disconnect between the playing squad and the coaching staff’
In an impassioned statement, long-standing Chiefs chairman and CEO Rowe detailed the reasons behind the dramatic decision to suspend both coaches.
“There has been a clear disconnect between the playing squad and the coaching staff, and it is something we simply cannot allow to continue. Exeter Rugby Club is built on togetherness, hard work and shared standards, and right now, those foundations need reinforcing.”
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“This is about more than just responding to results,” Rowe added. “It’s about re-establishing who we are and where we’re going. We’ve faced challenges before, and each time we’ve come back stronger.”
After a difficult weekend in Devon, Rowe issued a rallying cry to the club’s supporters to stick with the team.
“I would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to supporters for their unwavering loyalty and passion throughout the season. The bond between the team and the fans has always been a cornerstone of the club’s success, and that unity will be more important than ever as the Chiefs look to build momentum heading into the future.”
‘Rob is the right person’
Following the suspension of Hepher and Hunter, who had both had spells as club head coach this season, Baxter was handed front-line coaching duties until the end of the season.
His first spell as head coach began in 2009, leading them to promotion from the Championship in his first season and later lifting three Premiership Cups, two Premierships and one Champions Cup.
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Commenting on this, Rowe backed the former club captain to ‘write the next successful chapter’ of the club’s story.
“Rob is the right person to bring everyone back onto the same page to ensure that every player and coach is working towards the same goals.”
“His understanding of what it takes to build a winning culture, foster unity, and develop players to their full potential is unrivalled in the club’s history.”
“With Rob playing a more active coaching role again, we are confident this is the first step in writing the next successful chapter of the Exeter Chiefs story.”
Exeter return to Premiership action next weekend as they take on Northampton Saints at Sandy Park.
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