Exeter City manager Ellis Stuttard travelled to Newton Abbot on Saturday 8th May 1965, for a Devon Senior Cup Final tie. He signed Portals Atheltic winger, John Copp, a Plymouth born lad on amateur forms, He works as an apprentice in Devonport Dockyardc, Stuttard said that "he was one of the best amateur prospects he had seen for some time"

Johnny Copp played at outside left against Taunton on the 25th September 1965 in the Western League.  He played for the reserves in 1965/66 and 1966/67, and whilst at Exeter City played for the Devon Youth X1 against a Plymouth Argyle Under 18 side.