Successful trial secures a Chiefs contract for Moloney

Exeter Chiefs have recruited back row Martin Moloney just ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Moloney officially becomes a Chief having spent the majority of pre-season on trial in Devon from URC giants, Leinster Rugby.

The Kildare-born forward leaves the Irish province after 11 appearances for the senior squad having debuted against rivals Munster Rugby in April 2021.

“I am hugely excited to be joining the Exeter Chiefs squad this season,” the forward said.

“Watching how the team has performed over the last few years and the style of rugby that they play here, it is clear that now is a great time to be joining the club.

“Having been here for the last two months, I have learned a lot more about the rich history of this club.

“I look forward to representing the club this season and helping this group add to the legacy that is already here.”

The 24-year-old first took to the rugby field with Athy RFC while at Knockbeg College in Carlow. From there he progressed to Old Belvedere RFC in the Energia AIL competition.

While studying for a Business and Legal Studies degree at the University College Dublin, Moloney learned from the tutelage of experienced coaches as part of the Leinster Academy.

Arriving in Devon in the summer, Moloney was given his first experience of game-time at Sandy Park in the first game of the Double Header two weeks ago against London Scottish.

Director of Rugby Rob Baxter is pleased to have added depth to his squad and looks forward to seeing what the young Irishman can bring to the Chiefs.

“Martin has now joined up with us for the remainder of the season. He’s a young guy who’s had some injury issues at Leinster, took an opportunity to come to us on a long-term trial. We initially extended that period having watched him train for a month to include the recent double header games.

“I thought he did really well in our London Scottish and Cornish Pirates games. He’s trained really well for us and will give us a different option in the back row but also strengthen us in a position where – with players leaving and injuries – we’ve not got the strength in depth that we’ve had previously.

“He certainly adds a different dimension over the ball and around the contact area for us. So, we’ve been delighted to agree a contract with Martin to keep him with us until the end of the season.”