Exeter City Football Club took a vital step off the pitch this week, with first‑team players, academy prospects and staff completing a hands‑on CPR and defibrillator workshop. The session, run by local charity Jay’s Aim, gave around 50 participants the confidence to act if a cardiac emergency occurs.

What did the training involve?

Participants gathered at the club’s training ground for a half‑day awareness programme. Under the guidance of Jay’s Aim co‑founder Dan Osborne, they learned how to operate an automated external defibrillator and practiced chest compressions on realistic manikins. The charity, founded after the tragic death of 28‑year‑old Jay Osborne, aims to cut sudden cardiac arrest rates among young people across the South West.

Why is this important for Exeter City Football Club?

Matt Taylor, Exeter City’s manager, stressed that pre‑season preparation isn’t limited to drills on the grass. “We all know about the high‑profile cases of Christian Eriksen, Tom Lockyer and Fabrice Muamba,” he said, noting the need for players to be ready for emergencies. The club’s current league position – 21st in League One with 49 points from 46 games and a recent form of LDDDW – makes every training minute count, both on and off the field.

How does the partnership benefit the wider community?

Jay’s Aim hopes Exeter City’s involvement will inspire other grassroots clubs to request free CPR sessions. The charity also works with the Devon FA to train referees and provides fully funded portable defibrillators to clubs that apply. Dan Osborne praised the enthusiasm of everyone from the manager to the youngest academy player, saying the club’s commitment could save lives beyond the stadium.

What’s next for the club’s safety agenda?

Taylor confirmed the CPR workshop will become a regular feature of the club’s pre‑season schedule. “Every minute counts when someone suffers a cardiac arrest,” he added, reinforcing the club’s broader health and wellbeing strategy. With 52 goals scored and 61 conceded this season, Exeter City knows that resilience is needed in every arena – on the pitch, in the locker room, and now, in emergency response.

The club’s community‑first approach mirrors its on‑field challenges: 12 wins, 13 draws and 21 losses have left them 54 points behind leaders Lincoln. Yet the new lifesaving skills add a different kind of win – one that could protect fans, families and fellow players alike.