Exeter Chiefs have bolstered their front-row options with the acquisition of versatile hooker Sofia Bekir Fuente, a 24-year-old athlete whose unconventional rugby journey spans three continents.

Career Highlights

• Born in Madrid with eligibility for Spain, England, and Australia
• Transitioned to rugby in 2021 after competing in elite rowing and water polo
• Developed at Western Force (2022-2024) before European stints with North Bristol and Spanish clubs

Coaching Perspective
Assistant coach Steve Salvin emphasized Exeter's progressive recruitment strategy:

"Sofia embodies the modern cross-sport athlete we're targeting. Her explosive power from rowing and spatial awareness from water polo translate perfectly to front-row dynamics. We're creating pathways for late-starting talents to thrive in the PWR."

Technical Profile

• Strengths: Lineout accuracy (92% success rate in 2023-24), breakdown efficiency
• Scrum Impact: Recorded 1,200kg peak force in set-piece testing
• Leadership: Captained Western Force's development squad during 2023 Super W season

Future Prospects
Bekir Fuente could feature in three national team pathways:

1. England: Qualifies through grandmother born in Cornwall
2. Australia: Completed 3-year residency during Western Force tenure
3. Spain: Current XVs international status

The signing coincides with Exeter's expanded high-performance program targeting athletes from non-traditional rugby backgrounds, with 40% of their 2025-26 squad comprising multi-sport converts.