Proud day as University of Bath students, graduates and coaches help Bath Rugby secure Premiership Rugby Cup
A host of University of Bath students, graduates and coaches played key roles as Bath Rugby ended their 17-year wait for silverware with an outstanding 48-14 victory over Exeter Chiefs in the 2024-25 Premiership Rugby Cup Final.
Management student Tom Carr-Smith grabbed the first of seven Bath tries and Sports Performance alumnus Tom Dunn touched down twice on a perfect Sunday afternoon at Sandy Park.
Joining Carr-Smith in the starting line-up were fellow students Jasper Spandler (International Development with Economics), Austin Emens (Business) and Ethan Staddon (Natural Sciences), the latter supported in his dual careers by a Santander Sports Scholarship.
England A international Max Ojomoh (Business) was also in the match-day squad, as were graduates Arthur Cordwell, Kieran Verden, Will Jeanes, Will Butt and Miles Reid.
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In total Bath Rugby used 49 players during their successful cup campaign, many of whom have successfully combined their rugby careers with studying at the University of Bath while gaining invaluable playing experience with the men’s 1st XV in the national BUCS Super Rugby competition.
The close partnership between the University and Bath Rugby is reflected not just on the pitch but off it, with Bath Rugby Lead Academy Coach Mark Lilley and Ryan Davis coaching both the University performance and Premiership Rugby Cup squads.
Bath Rugby Head Coach Johann van Graan has also spoken positively of the partnership between the two Bath institutions, telling Talking Rugby Union: “It’s certainly a very strong relationship and a relationship we are very proud of.
“Certainly for us at Bath Rugby and the University of Bath, it’s been a really successful avenue. It’s beneficial for both parties but, most importantly, it’s beneficial for the players that are choosing to play rugby.”
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Visit teambath.com/rugby to find out more about the University of Bath rugby programme.
Pictured top: University of Bath performance rugby coaches Mark Lilley (left) and Ryan Davis with the Premiership Rugby Cup trophy. CREDIT: Bob Bradford.
