Heaven to Become an Exeter Chief

Exeter Chiefs have signed young Australian hooker Julian Heaven from the Waratahs ahead of the 2025/26 season.

The aspiring front rower makes the move back to the northern hemisphere, having previously represented Lyon in the French Top 14. Since moving back to Australia, Heaven has made 10 appearances for his Super Rugby side, scoring two tries.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Exeter Chiefs,” Heaven said. “It is a historic club in a city that loves its rugby. The team’s culture and playing style really stood out to me and I believe I can contribute to its success.

“After speaking with the coaches and seeing the passion of the fans, it felt like the perfect place to take the next step in my career.

“I can’t wait to get started and give everything for the club.”

A product of St Joseph’s College, it hasn't been a traditional journey to the topflight of rugby for Heaven. The hooker spent the early stages of his rugby career in the Warratahs Academy before deciding to adapt and broaden his game with a move to France to be part of the Lyon Academy.

Returning to Australia in 2022, he plied his trade with Shute Shield side, Eastern Suburbs, to prove himself to the higher echelons. An opportunity came calling in 2024 when Warratahs were dealt a number of injury blows and the young hooker seized his chance with both hands.

On the international stage, Heaven qualifies for Australia through birth, as well as Spain and England through familial connections.

Director of Rugby Rob Baxter is intrigued to see how the gritty front rower will slot into his Chiefs team.

“Julian is a really exciting young hooker with a very interesting story around how hard he’s worked to get the opportunities he’s had. He’s travelled to France to try to get experience there and he’s ended up fighting his way into getting some decent recognition with the Warratahs.

“In the last couple of weeks, he’s come off the bench or started in some very important games for the Warratahs. He’s a young guy who we think is an exciting character and player.

“He’s someone who will definitely add to what we’re trying to achieve here. We’re really excited to have him coming over here as a young EQP guy coming in with stacks to prove.

“He wants to win things, he wants to go well. His story has already proven he’s prepared to take the tough route to get to where he’s been – that really impresses me. I can only see bright things for him in the future.”