Just a matter of weeks before she expects to line-up for Canada against Scotland in Pool B at her beloved Sandy Park (6 September - get your tickets for all RWC 2025 Exeter matches here), Emily Tuttosi took time out from her Rugby World Cup 2025 preparations to talk all things Exeter.
A permanent fixture in the Chiefs front-row since joining back in 2020, Tuttosi is a huge fan of the south-west of England.
All set to play in her second RWC, the Canadian reveals why, for her, this is the place to come watch the greatest sport on earth:
A brilliant place to watch (and play...) rugby:
Sandy Park is the best. It can create an atmosphere and a spine-tingling experience like very few other stadiums. When you're on that pitch and you get on the front foot, you can feel the crowd's support behind you. The supporters really have the players' backs. The people from south west England are immensely passionate when it comes to the game.
This tournament is bound to leave a lasting impact. We hope it will bring a new audience to Sandy Park with fans who come to watch the World Cup games getting their first experience of Chiefs Women playing for their international teams. I want to see all those supporters come back and watch us in the PWR!
But we also have a fantastic women's pathway programme here and I would love to see more girls picking up a rugby ball for the first time because they have been inspired by what they have seen this summer.
Pre-match plans:
A lot of Exeter fans tend to gravitate to Sandy Park early to enjoy the build-up to a match. There are always supporters there when I arrive two hours before a game.
You can walk in from Topsham via The Blue Bull pub or join other rugby fans on the train from Exeter to Digby & Sowton before crossing the bridge to the ground.
There are plenty of places to meet up with friends and family at the ground. The Piazza in front of Sandy Park is a firm favourite. The players walk in that way too.
Post-match partying:
The fans' favourite DJ Disco Danny will be at Sandy Park throughout the tournament so fans can make a whole day of it. But I think the whole excitement of the World Cup itself will mean that, no matter where you go post-match, the centre of Exeter is bound to be lively.
You'll definitely be able to find the place to suit you.
Where to watch RWC 2025 matches on TV:
We're lucky to have a couple of dedicated sports bars like the Stand Off - owned by former Chief Gareth Steenson - and Ludo in Exeter centre. They'll almost always have rugby on the screens and you'll be able to enjoy good drinks and great food.
Community rugby clubs to check out:
There are loads of local clubs and schools who make up the vast Chiefs community that we deliver rugby training or education programmes to each week in our area. You won't have to go far to get involved with some great clubs giving back to our community and inspiring the next generation of players.
Top tips for first-time visitors:
A day in Topsham is a lovely experience with its independent stores, coffee shops and restaurants.
The city has a beautiful cathedral and underground passages that can be explored.
Exmouth beach is the players' favourite for a recovery dip.
And, of course, we're only a short trip away from Dartmoor for a decent hike and fab views for when you've spent enough time exploring the city.
Oh, and you need to grab yourself a cream tea too. Jam on first or second? It's up to you...
