Where Hockey Players Live in Exeter
Pennsylvania Road, St James, and Heavitree — the consistent trio for Exeter hockey players across multiple decades. Pennsylvania Road 5–8 bed houses are the traditional home of hockey squads, with squad members sharing houses on this road and parallel streets (Thornton Hill, Sylvan Road). The mixed social culture creates strong cross-gender friendship groups that often share accommodation. Booking in October/November of first year is essential.
Best Areas for Hockey Players
University of Exeter hockey players typically choose from these student areas — all within easy reach of Streatham Campus and the Sports Park:
Find Your Student House Near the Sports Park
Gillams Properties specialises in student lettings near Streatham Campus. Bills included, multiple bedroom counts, and viewings from January.
View Available Properties →About Hockey at Exeter University
The University of Exeter Hockey Club is one of the most decorated and respected sports clubs at the university, consistently ranking among the top 10 university hockey programmes in England. Both men's and women's 1st XIs compete in the BUCS South West Premier Division and have featured in BUCS Premier League knockout stages — the national competition level. The six-team structure (three men's, three women's) ensures every level of player has a competitive team. Exeter has produced England Hockey internationals at U18, U21, and senior level. The strong social culture — mixed socials, post-match traditions, and an annual overseas tour — makes hockey one of the most socially integrated sports clubs at the university. Home fixtures on the 3G astroturf at Streatham Sports Park draw significant student crowds.
Club History
Exeter Hockey has been competing at the top of South West university hockey for over three decades. The club's competitive peak through the 2010s saw the women's 1st XI in the national top 5 and the men's 1st XI qualifying for BUCS Premier League knockout rounds. Several alumni have represented England Hockey at junior and senior level, and the club has maintained connections with the England Hockey development programme. The six-team structure was formalised to ensure competitive hockey for all 150 club members — one of the largest club memberships at the university.
Joining the Hockey Club
Trials in the first week of September at the Streatham astroturf. Players are placed across the six teams based on demonstrated ability. The coaching ethos values tactical intelligence and movement quality alongside stick skills. New players with minimal hockey experience can join the social mixed programme — a separate recreational format — and the club runs beginner coaching sessions for those wanting to progress into competitive teams over 1–2 years.
Training
1st XIs train three times per week (Monday, Wednesday fixture day, Friday). Development squads train twice per week. 90-minute astroturf sessions covering patterns, positional work, and small-sided games. England Hockey Level 2+ coaches work with the 1st teams. Video analysis through the university sports department. BUCS away fixtures require early campus departure — noon or earlier for far South West venues.
BUCS Competition
Men's and women's 1st XIs in BUCS South West Premier. Top finishers advance to BUCS Premier League knockout stages. 2nd and 3rd XIs in Division 1 and Division 2. BUCS Vase competition for development teams. Fixtures October to April on BUCS Wednesday afternoons.
Teams
Highlights
England Hockey internationals at U18, U21, and senior level. Both 1st XIs consistently among the leading programmes in BUCS South West Premier. Men's 1st XI has featured in BUCS Premier League knockout rounds. 150-member club community is one of the largest at the university. Annual overseas tour is one of the most anticipated events in Exeter university sport.
Tips for New Members
- Book Pennsylvania Road in October/November of first year — hockey squad competition for 5–8 bed properties here is intense
- 2nd and 3rd XIs are genuinely competitive — initial squad placement is a starting point, not a ceiling
- The hockey social calendar is one of the best at Exeter — mixed socials between men's and women's sections are a defining part of the club identity
- Astro trainers (turf boots) are essential — the Streatham 3G surface requires specific footwear, not metal studs
- England Hockey Level 2+ coaches work with the 1st teams — maximise every interaction for tactical development
Related Sports at Exeter University
If you play hockey you may also be interested in these Exeter University clubs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Exeter University Hockey Club competitive nationally?
Yes — consistently top 10 in England, with both 1st XIs in BUCS South West Premier and having featured in BUCS Premier League knockout stages (national level).
Does Exeter University Hockey produce international players?
Yes — multiple alumni have represented England Hockey at U18, U21, and senior level. The coaching staff has England Hockey connections and maintains a development pathway for talented players.
How many BUCS hockey teams does Exeter field?
Six — men's 1st, 2nd, and 3rd XIs plus women's 1st, 2nd, and 3rd XIs. A 150-member club with competitive hockey at every level.
What is the social culture like at Exeter University Hockey Club?
Exceptional — mixed socials between men's and women's sections are a defining feature. The annual overseas tour is one of the most anticipated events in the Exeter student sporting calendar.
Where do Exeter University hockey players live?
Pennsylvania Road (primary), St James, and Heavitree. 5–8 bed houses on Pennsylvania Road and surrounding streets are the traditional home of hockey squads. Booking in October/November is essential.
What footwear do I need for Exeter University Hockey?
Astro trainers (turf boots) — specific to 3G/4G artificial surfaces. Metal studs are not suitable and will damage the Streatham Sports Park astroturf.