About American Football at Exeter
The University of Exeter Falcons American Football Club is one of the most energetic sports communities at Exeter, welcoming players at every level from complete beginners to those with youth league experience. American football at Exeter has grown substantially — reflecting the sport's rise across British universities — with a thriving culture built around competitive ambition and genuine inclusion. BUCS Wednesday fixtures pit the Falcons against South West universities in a format that rewards physical preparation, tactical discipline, and team cohesion. The sport draws players from all faculties and has particular appeal to students who enjoy the combination of physical contact sport and the strategic depth of a game that rewards preparation as much as athleticism.
Club History
The Falcons established themselves in the BUCS South West Conference in the early 2010s, growing from a small group of students who had played touch football at school into a full-contact programme with first team and development squad. The "Falcons" identity — referencing Exeter's heraldic connection — has become a recognisable presence in South West university sport. The development squad structure has been a key part of the club's growth, ensuring beginners have a real pathway to competitive American football within 18 months of picking up the sport for the first time.
Joining the American Football Club
Freshers' trials and welcome sessions run in the first two weeks of September. No equipment and no experience is required — the club provides all helmets, pads, and protective gear for newcomers. Players are assessed and placed in either the competitive first team or the development squad. Both squads train together initially and movement between squads is fluid. The club runs film sessions and social events throughout the season that integrate all members regardless of squad.
Training
Training runs twice per week: one weekday evening at Streatham Sports Park and one Sunday morning session, each 90–120 minutes. Sessions combine conditioning work, position-specific drilling, and team plays. BUCS fixtures take place on Wednesday afternoons. All coaches hold BAFA (British American Football Association) qualifications. As the season progresses, sessions become more fixture-preparation focused with tactical review of previous game footage.
BUCS Competition
Exeter competes in the BUCS South West American Football Conference, playing home and away league fixtures on BUCS Wednesday afternoons from October through February. Top teams advance to BUCS Knockout rounds. Beyond BUCS, the club also participates in BAFA community leagues which extend the season and give development squad players more game time. Home games at Streatham draw significant student crowds and are among the more spectacular spectacles in Exeter university sport.
Teams
Highlights & Alumni
The Falcons have competed in BUCS knockout rounds and produced players who continue in BAFA senior clubs after graduation. The development squad structure means students who arrive with no experience can realistically reach first team selection within 18 months. The club also runs flag football sessions during pre-season — one of the best-attended new-member events at the university.
Tips for Prospective Members
- Book your Pennsylvania Road house in October/November of first year — large squad houses in this area fill fast
- Attend freshers' trials even with no football experience — the development squad is specifically for beginners
- Invest in your own mouthguard early — it's the one piece of kit the club doesn't provide
- BUCS Wednesday schedules are set in advance — check timetable clashes before booking optional modules
- Film sessions are where the biggest tactical improvements happen — prioritise these alongside physical training
Student Accommodation for American Football Players
Most Falcons players live in Pennsylvania Road, St James, and Heavitree — the three areas surrounding Streatham Campus and the Sports Park. Pennsylvania Road is most popular for its large Victorian houses (5–7 beds) that work perfectly for squad groups. Many players form 4–6 person households in second year. St James offers slightly smaller but affordable houses on Sylvan Road and St James Road, a 12–15 minute walk from the Sports Park.
View Properties Near the University →Popular Areas for American Football Players
Most University of Exeter american football players live in one of these student areas — all within easy reach of Streatham Campus and Sports Park:
Related Sports at Exeter University
If you play american football you may also be interested in these Exeter University clubs:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Exeter University American Football team called?
The University of Exeter American Football Club competes as the Exeter Falcons, fielding a first team and development squad in the BUCS South West Conference.
Do I need experience to join Exeter University American Football?
No. The development squad is designed for beginners. The club provides all protective equipment during the trial period and runs dedicated beginner sessions.
What BUCS conference does Exeter American Football compete in?
Exeter competes in the BUCS South West American Football Conference, with home and away league fixtures on BUCS Wednesday afternoons from October to February.
How often does the Falcons squad train?
Twice per week — typically a weekday evening and Sunday morning — plus BUCS fixtures on Wednesdays. Total commitment is around 3–4 hours per week during the season.
Where do Exeter University American Football players typically live?
Pennsylvania Road, St James, and Heavitree are the most popular areas — all within easy reach of Streatham Campus and Sports Park. Large group houses of 5–7 beds in Pennsylvania Road are particularly popular.
Is American football safe at university level?
BUCS American football follows full BAFA rules with mandatory protective equipment, BAFA-qualified officials, and medical protocols at all fixtures. The university sports department provides sports medicine support at home games.