The Second-Season Surge: Why Julian Heaven’s Exeter Story Isn’t Over Yet
There’s something about a player’s second season at a new club that feels like a make-or-break moment. It’s the point where the honeymoon phase ends, the excuses run dry, and the real work begins. Julian Heaven’s first year at Exeter Chiefs was, by most accounts, underwhelming. But here’s the thing: personally, I think we’re too quick to write off players like Heaven after a single season, especially when they’ve moved across continents to join a new league. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Rob Baxter, Exeter’s Director of Rugby, is framing Heaven’s situation—not as a failure, but as a natural part of a longer journey.
The Settling-In Saga: Why First Seasons Are Rarely Fair Tales
Heaven’s story isn’t unique. Moving from the NSW Waratahs to Exeter is more than just a change of jersey; it’s a cultural, tactical, and lifestyle shift. From my perspective, what many people don’t realize is how much the Premiership’s pace and physicality differ from other leagues. Heaven’s three starts and two tries last season might look modest, but they’re not the full picture. One thing that immediately stands out is how he was overshadowed by teammates like Max Norey and Joseph Dweba, despite being English-qualified and having a clear pathway to more game time.
But here’s where it gets interesting: Baxter’s comments suggest that Heaven’s quiet first season could be a prelude to something bigger. If you take a step back and think about it, players like Don Armand and Kai Horstmann—now Exeter legends—were in similar positions early in their careers. This raises a deeper question: Is the first-season struggle a rite of passage for players adapting to Exeter’s system? Or is it a red flag?
The Pre-Season Paradox: Where Turnarounds Begin
Baxter’s optimism hinges on the transformative power of a good pre-season. A detail that I find especially interesting is how he links pre-season performance to a player’s breakout year. It’s not just about physical conditioning; it’s about mental adjustment, tactical understanding, and fitting into the team’s culture. What this really suggests is that Heaven’s second season could be his chance to rewrite the narrative.
But let’s not forget the psychological side of this. Adapting to a new league is as much about confidence as it is about skill. Heaven’s decision to prioritize his English Qualified Player (EQP) status over playing for Spain shows a long-term mindset, which I think is often overlooked. In my opinion, this kind of commitment could be the foundation for a strong second season.
The Broader Trend: Why Second Seasons Matter
Heaven’s situation isn’t just about him; it’s part of a larger pattern in rugby. Players moving abroad often face a steep learning curve, and their first seasons are rarely their best. What makes Exeter unique is how they’ve turned this into a strength. Baxter’s approach—patience, trust, and a focus on long-term development—has paid off with players like Armand and Horstmann.
From my perspective, this is where Exeter’s culture shines. They don’t panic when a player struggles; they see it as part of the process. But here’s the catch: not every player makes it through this phase. The Premiership is unforgiving, and second chances are rare. This raises a deeper question: Can Heaven use this pre-season to prove he belongs in Exeter’s starting lineup?
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Heaven?
If history is any guide, Heaven’s second season could be his defining moment. But it’s not just about him; it’s about how Exeter handles players in transition. Personally, I think this is where the club’s true identity shows. They’re not just building a team; they’re building a system that gives players the time and support to succeed.
One thing I’ll be watching closely is how Heaven adapts to the Premiership’s demands. Can he find the rhythm Baxter talks about? Will he become the player Exeter thought they were signing? In my opinion, the answer lies in how he uses this pre-season—not just to improve physically, but to truly settle into the club’s culture and style.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Patience
Julian Heaven’s first season at Exeter might not have been the fairy tale fans hoped for, but it’s far from the end of his story. What this really suggests is that success in rugby—like in life—is rarely linear. Players stumble, adapt, and grow, and sometimes it takes a full season to find their footing.
From my perspective, Heaven’s journey is a reminder of the importance of patience in sport. It’s easy to write off a player after a quiet first year, but Exeter’s approach shows that sometimes, the best is yet to come. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just about Heaven; it’s about the resilience and potential in every player who dares to step into the unknown.
So, will Julian Heaven come good at Exeter? Personally, I think the pieces are there. But more than that, I think his story is a testament to the power of second chances—and the magic of a good pre-season.
