Jack Fitzwater named captain and Jake Doyle-Hayes appointed vice-captain of Exeter City

Exeter City manager Matt Taylor has named Jack Fitzwater as the Club's captain ahead of the 2026/27 Sky Bet League Two season, with Jake Doyle-Hayes appointed vice-captain.

The pair will lead the Grecians into the Club's landmark 125th anniversary campaign following the departure of long-serving skipper Pierce Sweeney earlier this summer.

Jack has become a key figure since joining City in the summer of 2023, establishing himself as a commanding presence at the heart of the defence. Respected throughout the dressing room for his professionalism and leadership, the experienced centre-back will now wear the captain's armband as the Grecians begin a new chapter.

Jake, meanwhile, has been named vice-captain after earning the admiration of teammates and staff alike with his composure, influence and high standards both on and off the pitch.

Explaining his decision, Matt Taylor said: "Jack is the standout in terms of what we want an Exeter City player to act like and how professional he is every day. He sets standards for himself and everyone around him at the training ground.

"He's been here long enough now that he knows the club inside out. We missed him when he wasn't available at the back end of last season, and we hope he'll be at the heart of our defence again this year."

On Doyle-Hayes' appointment as vice-captain, Taylor added: "Jake is our most influential player. He's the one who controls the way the team functions from the middle of the pitch. It's important that we get him fit first and foremost and then give him that responsibility of leadership.

"Last season, when he did play, he was probably the captain without the armband. He's the voice of reason and someone the players look up to. He doesn't say too much, but when he does speak, people listen."

Reacting to his appointment, Jack said: "I'm delighted. It's a huge honour to captain any football club, and it's a responsibility I feel ready for. It's a proud moment for me and one I'm really excited about.

“Jake and I will work together to set standards every day, both on and off the training pitch. We've got a young group this season, so it's important that we lead by example and help drive the team forward."

Jake added: "I'm delighted to be working alongside Fitzy. I think we'll form a strong leadership team and help guide the lads in the right direction as we look to get the club back to where we want to be.

"We're both experienced professionals and I think the lads see the standards we set every day. We've got a really good group in the dressing room and we'll do everything we can to drive those standards on and off the pitch throughout the season."