Suspended Exeter Chiefs boss departs club after ‘clear disconnect’

Former Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Hunter has today officially left the club by mutual consent, after being put on suspension on Monday. 

After serving under both Rob Baxter and Ali Hepher as forwards coach, Hunter was named Chiefs head coach in March, but after just four games, he was relieved of his duties.

Rob Hunter leaves Exeter Chiefs by mutual consent

Commenting on the news, Exeter chairman and CEO, Tony Rowe CBE, said: “On behalf of everyone at Exeter Rugby Club, I would like to express our gratitude to Rob for his dedication and the impact he has had during his time with us. We wish him every success in his future endeavours.”

Director of rugby, Rob Baxter, added: “Rob has been an integral part of our coaching team across multiple seasons. I want to personally thank him for his hard work, loyalty, and the positive influence he has had on the squad.

“Although it is never easy to part ways with someone who has contributed so much, we look forward with confidence and enthusiasm as we continue to build on the strong foundations Rob has helped to establish.”

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The former London Scottish and Northampton Saints player joined Baxter’s coaching ticket in 2013 after leaving his role with the England U20s, and played a key role in their rise to becoming English and European champions.

Hunter’s exit comes amid a damning statement from Rowe, with the long-standing chairman detailing a breakdown of trust between the players and coaching staff.

“There has been a clear disconnect between the playing squad and the coaching staff, and it is something we simply cannot allow to continue,” Rowe said in a statement on Wednesday. “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.”

There has been no official statement regarding the future of fellow suspended coach, Ali Hepher. Hepher was relieved of head coach duties to make for Hunter in March, with the former England Saxons boss lined up to move into the club’s academy staff at the end of the season.

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