Gareth Steenson 

BIOGRAPHY

 

Playing Career

Gareth Steenson is best known as a one-club man with the Exeter Chiefs, where he became an iconic figure and one of the most influential players in the club’s history.
A prolific fly-half, Steenson is the all-time top points scorer for the Chiefs and played a central role in the club’s rise through the English rugby ranks.

He helped guide Exeter to promotion to the Premiership in 2010, marking the start of an incredible era for the club. In 2017, as captain, Steenson famously kicked the winning points in the Premiership Final, securing Exeter’s first-ever top-flight title. His leadership and consistency were instrumental as the Chiefs went on to achieve remarkable success, including the Premiership and Heineken Cup double in 2020, cementing their place among Europe’s elite.

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Playing Career

Following his retirement in 2020, Steenson was honoured with the Freedom of the City of Exeter in 2021 for his outstanding contribution to the club and local community.

He is also the co-founder of The Stand Off, an Irish bar and restaurant in Exeter, which has become a popular hub for fans and locals alike.

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Continuing his passion for rugby, Gareth remains actively involved in coaching as part of the Irish Rugby Women’s Coaching Group, preparing for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England.

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Coaching & Player Development

A natural teacher of the game, Gareth has developed a deep passion for helping players – particularly fly-halves – refine their technical and mental skills. Drawing on his years of experience at the highest level, he offers specialist one-to-one coaching focused on all aspects of playmaking: goal-kicking, game management, tactical awareness, and leadership under pressure.

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His coaching approach extends beyond the field, helping players build the resilience, confidence, and decision-making mindset needed to thrive in professional and amateur environments alike. Whether working with aspiring young talents or experienced players seeking to elevate their game, Gareth’s insights and mentorship provide a unique, high-performance edge.

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Speaking Engagements

Gareth now shares his inspiring story of Exeter Chiefs’ remarkable journey — from the lower leagues to becoming Champions of Europe — through engaging talks focused on leadership, resilience, and team building.

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His experiences offer valuable lessons for corporate audiences, businesses, sports clubs, and charity events, blending authenticity, humour, and motivation drawn from over a decade at the top of professional sport.