Sweeney joined the Cardiff Blues from Newport Gwent Dragons in the summer of 2008 having made his debut for Wales against England in the Six Nations Championship in 2003. He played in three Rugby World Cup games later that year and also featured in the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

A product of the Pontypridd Youth Team, the 33-year-old has been a consistent performer for the Blues. He helped them win the EDF Energy Cup in 2009 and the Amlin Challenge Cup in 2010 and went on to record his 100th game for the Blues in October 2012.

Speaking of leaving the Blues, Sweeney said,

"I've really enjoyed my time with the Blues, they are a fantastic club and the supporters have been outstanding.

"For me, it's my home region, and with the young players they have coming through the ranks, the future of the club certainly looks very bright.

"I'm extremely proud to have played 100 games for them and winning the EDF Energy and Amlin Cups are the obvious highlights.

"I take with me a lot of happy memories and a lot of good friends, but I wanted a fresh challenge at this stage in my career and that is something Exeter have offered me."

Speaking of joining the Aviva Premiership club on a one-year deal, Ceri added,

"Exeter are a fantastic club and as soon as I heard they were interested in me, I was keen to talk to them and have a look around the place.

"Like a lot of people, I've watched how they have risen over the last few years and how they've made a real name for themselves, not just in the Premiership, but in Europe as well.

"I also like their style of play and they seem to have some great values within the club, all of which were pretty much in evidence when I went to speak to Rob and Ali.

"The whole set-up down there is very professional and I couldn't really find fault with anything.

"It's an exciting move for me and my young family and it's a fresh challenge.

"I know it will be the first time I've played club rugby outside of Wales, but the thought of testing myself in the Premiership is something I'm really keen to do.

"I'm sure my experience is something that can help the club, but my main aim will be to work hard, work closely with the other tens and basically look to get the best out of one another."