Skinner bows out on a high note

By Mark Stevens
15/6/22

Sam Skinner departs Devon this month with a stack of memories that will last him a lifetime.

The Scottish international has now called time on his career with the Exeter Chiefs and will from next season line-up in the colours of Edinburgh in the United Rugby Championship.

It has, however, been an amazing journey for the 27-year-old at his hometown club. Not only has he amassed over 100 games, scoring 13 tries in the process, but he's forged himself as an integral figure in the recent rise of the Chiefs

Bowing out after the club's 47-38 victory over Harlequins in the Gallagher Premiership, an emotional Skinner wasted little time in highlighting the best bits of an awesome eight-year ride.

"It's surreal stood here right now," he said. "That said, I'm just so happy for what I've achieved, the opportunities I've been given, as well as the friends that I've made.

"I've supported the club since the County Ground days, got to meet some of my heroes and, more recently, I've been able to follow in their footsteps, it’s been a dream come true.”

Having played his part in much of Exeter’s recent success, Skinner admits it was the double-winning year of 2020 that stands out at the summit.

“Doing the double was pretty special,” he added. “I also remembering watching the semi-final [against Saracens] as I had just finished my last University exam. Because I was injured and didn’t play, watching it was like being a fan again and it was such a special moment for all of us. This club, though, is just so special. It’s hard to put into words.

“I will forever be grateful for the opportunities it has given me, plus the mates I’ve made, life-long mates. The time is right though for me to move on. I’ve had a while to get to this stage, so I’m at peace with it all. The club, though, is special and I’ve no doubt I’ll be back in the future, getting behind the lads again.”

Before bowing out, though, Skinner helped Rob Baxter’s side to round off their season with victory against the reigning champions.

“It’s not been our season, but that’s sport and that’s life sometimes,” he continued. “To finish like this, playing in front of a record crowd, beating a side like Harlequins, it’s the perfect way to finish things off for me. As a club, hopefully they can use this result to take into next season and push forward because there really is so much talent within the squad here.”