Ethan Roots, Exeter Chiefs. Sponsored by QMS

From Building Sites to International Rugby: Why QMS is Backing Ethan Roots

At QMS, we’ve always believed that the most inspiring success stories aren’t the ones that follow a straight line. They are the ones built on hard graft, often starting with a 4:30 am gym session followed by a ten-hour shift on a construction site. That raw, “get stuck in” mentality is exactly why we are proud to be backing Exeter Chiefs back-rower, Ethan Roots, for the 2025/26 season.

A Rugby Player Forged Through Hard Work

Before Ethan Roots was facing down international opponents in an England shirt, he was living a very different life. Ethan was competing in jiu-jitsu at an elite level—racking up eight national titles, a gold and three silvers at Pan-Pacific Championships.

Ethan’s journey to the top wasn’t a silver-spoon academy story. It was a four-year grind after leaving school, working completely outside the traditional pathway but remaining determined to earn a professional contract. His days started at 4:30 am at the gym, followed by 10 or 11 hours of hard labour on a building site before he even arrived at rugby training.

That foundation of graft and determination never left him. When he transitioned to professional rugby with North Harbour, then the Crusaders, Ospreys, and finally Exeter Chiefs, he brought that same relentless work ethic with him. It’s visible in every tackle, every carry, every minute he’s on the pitch.

Making His Mark in Black, White and Red

Since pulling on a Chiefs shirt, Ethan has been exceptional. His abrasive style and committed work-rate have made him a cornerstone of the pack. In his maiden season, he featured in over 20 games, including a memorable try against Stade Toulousain. These performances earned him an England debut in the 2024 Six Nations and the captaincy for England A against the All Blacks XV. As a leading forward, Ethan continues to improve, driving the team forward against every obstacle.

Why We’re Proud to Back Ethan

For QMS Managing Director Greg, the connection was immediate: “Since Ethan joined Exeter Chiefs, he has increasingly gotten better with each season. His absolute drive to take down the opposition is a testament to the power of The Chiefs and himself as an individual. As one of the leading forwards in the squad, he is leading the drive for the team against all obstacles that are put in his way, which kind of reminded me of how QMS have developed and grown over the years.”

Like Ethan, we’re a business that understands the value of hard work. We’ve watched our own team members start as agency workers and grow into management positions. We know that talent isn’t about where you start—it’s about your willingness to put in the work, get back up when you’re knocked down, and Ethan embodies those values. His journey from construction sites to international rugby proves that with determination and the right support, anything is possible.

Giving Back to Local Rugby

As part of this sponsorship, Ethan will be running a special training session with Brixham RFC’s U14’s squad this season, sharing the skills and mindset that took him to the top. The young players will also get a behind-the-scenes stadium tour at Sandy Park.

Evening with the Players

We recently headed down to Sandy Park for the player sponsors’ dinner, where we hosted a table with Ethan. It was a fantastic night, hearing first-hand about his background and the hard work that got him here. Despite his international success, he is incredibly humble, mirroring the culture of the entire club.

Here’s to the 2025/26 Season

We couldn’t be prouder to sponsor Ethan Roots this season. His story, his work ethic, and his performances on the pitch represent everything we value at QMS.

Come on you Chiefs! 🏉