University of Exeter Hockey Programme
The University of Exeter Hockey Programme is recognised as one of the leading university hockey programmes in the United Kingdom. We provide student-athletes with the opportunity to compete at the very highest level of university and national league hockey, supported by outstanding coaching, world-class facilities, and a holistic high-performance environment.
As the No.1 University Hockey Programme in the country, we proudly field numerous men’s and women’s teams who have competed in the top leagues including:
England Hockey’s:
• Premier League
• Division 1 South
• Western Conference
As well as in the British Universities & Colleges Sports from the very top league all the way through to Development & Social Sport Leagues
Our programme is designed not only to deliver success on the pitch, but to develop exceptional individuals prepared for elite sport and life beyond university.
A High-Performance Environment
We offer a comprehensive performance pathway that includes:
• Full pre-season performance programme
• High-quality team and individual coaching from current international coaches
• Three weekly strength & conditioning sessions in the Athlete Development Centre
• Performance video analysis both for tactical and individual technical development
• International Player Pathway Support
• Scholarships and bursaries for Junior and Senior International athletes
• Athlete Lifestyle Support, including nutrition, psychology, and employability development
• Coaching and umpiring development opportunities, with funded qualifications
World-Class Facilities
At the heart of our programme is our international-standard, water-based astro pitch, opened in 2013 and resurfaced in 2023. This elite facility hosts:
• Annual Spotlight fixtures
• England Hockey League matches
• University of Exeter Hockey Club fixtures
• Exeter College Academy and local club activity
It serves both our performance squads and the wider community, reinforcing Exeter’s position as a regional Talent Academy Hub for hockey excellence.
Why We Need Your Support
To sustain our position at the top of university hockey—and to ensure the programme remains both high-performing and inclusive—ongoing investment is essential.
By donating to the Hockey Fund, you will help create a stable and sustainable foundation that enables the club to:
• Compete nationally at the highest level
• Develop international-calibre players
• Maintain world-class facilities
• Ensure hockey at Exeter remains accessible and inclusive
Every contribution, regardless of size, directly strengthens the future of Exeter Hockey.
Where Your Donations Make an Impact
All funds raised go directly toward priorities identified by the student committee and coaching team. Your support helps cover essential — often unseen — costs that allow our teams to train, compete, and represent the University with pride.
Examples of funding priorities include:
• Coaching Development & Education – £100–£200
• Training Equipment & Kit Upgrades (balls, bibs, safety equipment, team bags) – £2,000
• Facility Hire (pitch and sports hall) – £1,000
• Facility Improvements (Covered seating for spectators)
• Specialist Equipment (e.g. electronic scoreboard for the water-based pitch) – £6,000–£7,000
• Team Travel to regional and national fixtures – £3,000–£5,000
• Umpire & League Fees – £4,000–£6,000
Supporters will receive updates on how their contributions are making a tangible difference to training standards, match-day experience, and long-term sustainability.
International Success Stories
Our programme has proudly developed players who have progressed to represent their countries on the international stage:
England, Wales & Great Britain – Men
Sam Hooper (Eng), Jake Payton (Eng), Ben Fox (Eng), Tom Carson (Eng), Ben Francis (Wales), Rhys Bradshaw (Wales), James Carson (Wales)
England, Wales & Great Britain – Women
Martha Taylor (Eng) (pictured above), Georgie Gardens (Eng), Millie Holme (Wales) Emily Drysdale (Wales), Holly Done (Wales), Tilly Edwards (Wales), Ella Jackson (Wales), Katherine Lane (Eng), Sarah Thomas (Wales)
These athletes embody the ambition, commitment, and excellence that define Exeter Hockey.
Make a Lasting Difference
Your support enables current and future student-athletes to pursue excellence — both academically and athletically — within one of the UK’s premier university hockey environments.
Thank you for supporting University of Exeter Hockey. Together, we can secure the future of performance, participation, and pride.
