Cowan-Dickie signs new deal

It’s been quite a year for Luke Cowan-Dickie, but the young Cornishman is predicting even brighter times ahead for him at Exeter Chiefs in the future.

The 20-year-old hooker today extended his stay at Sandy Park until 2017 when he penned terms on a new contract extension with head coach Rob Baxter.

In a 12-month period that has seen Cowan-Dickie help England Under-20s to Junior World Championship glory; the Chiefs to lift their first major silverware in 143 years; as well as featuring in the Aviva Premiership and Heineken Cup, it’s little wonder the Truro-born forward has plenty of reasons to smile.

News of this deal is the latest boost for Cowan-Dickie, who has spoken of his joy at extending his time with the Chiefs for the next three years.

“I’m really happy because it’s always good to know you are wanted at a club,” he said. “I had another year left on my last contract, but Rob called me in, he spoke to my agent, and now this is a great opportunity for me to move forward with the Chiefs.

“This year has been really good for me in a lot of ways, but I know I still have lots to do. The move up from playing Championship to Premiership was massive, but it’s good as it keeps me working hard.

“One of goals at the start of the year was to get some Premiership game time and although I was injured at the start of the season, this second half has been a lot better and it’s been great to be part of the first team and playing in so many big games.”

With fellow academy rookies such as Jack Nowell, Dave Ewers, Sam Hill and Henry Slade also establishing themselves within the Exeter first team ranks, Cowan-Dickie says the future for Devon’s finest looks encouraging.

“It’s good that we’re all involved and playing games together,” he continued. Obviously Nowellsy has led the way, but it shows that you can from being into the academy into the Premiership and then onto playing for England.

“Also a few of the other lads have been with the Saxons this season, so hopefully a few more of us do the same in the future. Playing with guys in the first team has been good, but it’s even better when you’ve got guys your own age in there as well.

“There are a few of us who have grown up together over the years, so it’s nice that we’re all doing this together now. Obviously the aim for all of us is to keep improving and doing our best for the Chiefs.”

With Cowan-Dickie signing off his season yesterday with Exeter’s final game at Newcastle Falcons, the young forward is now relishing a well-deserved break before returning strong for next season’s campaign.

“We’ve got a few weeks off coming up, but then it won’t be long before we’re back into pre-season and starting all over again. It’ll be good to have a rest, but I know next season will be tough, so hopefully I can stay fit and look to go again.”