From Fly-Half to Future Plans: A Conversation with Will Haydon-Wood

It was a real pleasure taking our Exeter Chiefs sponsored Player of the Year, Will Haydon-Wood, out for lunch and getting to know him. A big thank you to the brilliant team at Ludo Sports & Live Lounge for hosting us — and the Chicken Schnitzel certainly lived up to the hype!

What inspired you to get into rugby?
I can’t say there was one big inspirational moment — it just sort of happened naturally. My dad used to take me to watch games from when I was about four, and he was a coach too, so rugby was just always around. Then I went off to boarding school in Cumbria at 11, where rugby is a pretty big deal, and it all grew from there.

Who is your sporting hero?
 Johnny Wilkinson, without a doubt.

Would you go down the coaching route?
I don’t think coaching is really for me — I much prefer playing — but I’d definitely like to stay involved in rugby in some way.

What position do you play?
I’m mainly a fly-half, but I can slot in at full-back if needed. I’d say I’m an attacking player — I like to get on the front foot and use my footwork.

How would you describe the team spirit in the Chiefs?
Last season was a bit of a rollercoaster, to be honest, but I think that’s made us sharper, more focused, and really determined this season.

Who is the biggest joker in the squad?
Dan John.

Do you have any pre-match superstitions?
I used to have a few little habits, but I’ve dropped them now.

Which teammate keeps morale the highest in training?
Probably Jack Yeandle. He is one of the more experienced guys — he knows how to keep things light and funny but also make sure we’re switched on when we need to be.

What other sports do you enjoy watching?
Football and cricket.

How do the older players support the younger ones in the squad?
To be honest, most of us are around the same age — mid to late 20s — so there aren’t loads of “older” players. That kind of support usually comes more from the coaching staff and, of course, from Rob Baxter.

What do you like to do to unwind when you’re not playing or training?
I’m really into reading — especially historical novels and political thrillers from authors like Robert Harris and John le Carré.

Do you have any plans for after your rugby career?
Yeah, I’ve got an undergraduate business degree and I’m thinking about possibly doing a master’s next. You’ve got to plan ahead because a rugby career doesn’t last forever.

It was a great to spend time with Will and to get a glimpse into his journey both on and off the pitch. We’d like to thank him for his time and wish him and the Exeter Chiefs every success for the rest of the season!