A RECORD 25 Exeter College students have represented their country during this academic year, across sports including rugby, football, water polo, athletics and ultimate frisbee.

A standout achievement came from the college’s men’s and women’s rugby academies, with 11 youngsters selected for England age-grade squads.

Three football academy players represented England Colleges, Jake Brown won a Taekwondo European Championship silver medal, Olivia Steer was crowned U16 1500m national champion in athletics, and three students represented Great Britain in water polo. Jess Upchurch captained Great Britain in ultimate frisbee, with fellow learner Rowan Tigg also selected.

Both Exeter College’s men’s and women’s football teams were crowned AoC national champions, the first college to do this in the competition’s history, while the men’s rugby academy won their ACE League and represented England at the SANIX World Youth Championships in Japan.

The year also saw the college expand and improve its sporting offer for young athletes. Devon’s first women’s cricket academy in a non-fee-paying college was introduced, and the women’s football academy relaunched its partnership with Exeter City Women’s Football Club.

Exeter College Sports Academy Manager Chris Wall said: "What an incredible year for Exeter College sport.

“To have 25 learners represent their country is a remarkable achievement and one they should be immensely proud of.

“All of our learners who represent the college work so hard, and we're so proud to see that effort and determination paying off for so many this year.

“A huge thank-you to all the coaches and support staff involved in Exeter College sport. The time and attention they give to our learners is second to none, and the individual and team successes we've had this year are a testament to that.”

Exeter College is rated “outstanding” by Ofsted.