Stuart Townsend is a scrum-half who currently plays professional rugby union for Exeter Chiefs in Premiership Rugby. He has shown his skills in controlling the scrum and open play, as well as his try-scoring ability. Townsend has represented England at the U18 level, scoring five tries in his first five appearances.
Townsend began his rugby journey at the age of six at his local club Kingsbridge. He received his education at the local Primary and Community College before joining Ivybridge Community College, where he became part of the Exeter Chiefs Academy system.
Working closely with coaches like Rob Gibson and Ricky Pellow, Townsend made rapid progress in the game. He represented England at various age levels, including the U20s, and gained valuable experience playing in the National Leagues with Taunton Titans and the Cornish Pirates.
Townsend's career with Exeter Chiefs has seen him make significant contributions. He spent the 2016/17 season on dual registration with the Cornish Pirates and Exeter Chiefs.
After injuries to other scrum-halves in the squad, Townsend was called back to the Chiefs' squad midway through the season. He made appearances off the bench in both the Premiership and European competitions before earning his first full starting appearance, where he scored a try against Leicester Tigers at Welford Road.
Townsend's standout moment came in the 2016-17 season when he started in the Premiership final at Twickenham, helping the Chiefs secure the championship title in extra time against Wasps.
He also scored a try in the semi-final of the Anglo-Welsh Cup against Newcastle Falcons, which contributed to the Chiefs' place in the final against Bath Rugby. The final, originally scheduled for March 18, 2018, was postponed due to snow and rescheduled to March 30, where Townsend played a part in the Chiefs' 28-11 victory.
In February 2019, Townsend signed a new two-year deal, committing his future to Exeter Chiefs until at least the summer of 2021. Despite encountering injuries that slowed his progress, he has regained full fitness and is determined to contribute to the team's success in all competitions.
KG(17/06/2023)
Career
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Exeter Chiefs Scrum Half |
2017 - present |
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England U20's Scrum Half |
2014 - 2017 |
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Cornish Pirates Scrum Half |
2016 - 2022 |
