Exeter Chiefs have confirmed the appointment of England U20s assistant Dave Walder as the club’s new attack coach with immediate effect.
The news comes following the departure of Ali Hepher, who left his post by mutual consent yesterday.
Dave Walder joins Exeter Chiefs coaching staff
Former England fly-half Walder began his coaching career with Newcastle Falcons, serving as head coach for eight years, before later joining Bristol Bears as senior back and skills coach.
He has also recently been a part of the England U20s set-up under Mark Mapletoft, alongside current Chiefs defence coach Haydn Thomas.
Commenting on the news, Walder said: “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.”
“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.”
Chiefs director of rugby, Rob Baxter, added: “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.”
“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.
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“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.”
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