James Hume, Tom O’Toole, and Sean Reffell, all Ireland internationals, are expected to stay with the province in the upcoming years.
This Saturday, at Kingspan Stadium, Hume, 25, led his home province to a 49-26 bonus point victory. From now on, he will identify as an Ulsterman at least until June 2027.
After going through the province’s player route, the dynamic centre, who previously won the Danske Bank Ulster Schools Senior Cup three times with RBAI, has now earned 90 caps for Ulster.
Hume has gained recognition for his consistent performance on teamsheets throughout the past few seasons, earning him a spot in the BKT United Rugby Championship Dream Team lineup as well as prizes such as Rugby Writers’ Player of the Year and Ulster Player of the Year.
With three caps for Ireland, the Belfast native said, “I’m delighted to extend my future here at Ulster.” I’m eager to see what the future brings because I genuinely care about and adore this team.
With a new three-year contract, the 25-year-old O’Toole, who is now in camp with Andy Farrell’s Ireland Six Nations team, has also pledged his future to Ulster.
The diligent prop joined the Ulster Rugby Academy in 2017 after playing his last year of school rugby at Campbell College. Since then, he has made an impression at the provincial and international levels, earning 98 caps for the province since making his debut against Edinburgh in 2018.
Participating in Ireland’s most recent Rugby World Cup campaign, O’Toole expressed his happiness at joining Ulster Rugby.
“Our management and playing group are excellent. As we begin a new chapter, it will be an honour to contribute in part to the province’s future.
Reffell, an Irish-qualified flanker, will wear the Ulster shirt for a minimum of another two years in the meantime.
The 25-year-old will be hoping to establish himself further after setting a record with 39 tackles against Munster in his maiden appearance for Ulster. Unfortunately, an injury has interfered with his tenure in the province thus far.
Declared the former Saracens Young Player of the Year, “I’m very happy to be carrying on with Ulster.” I love being a part of this squad because the guys are incredibly close, both on and off the pitch. There is also a strong competitive spirit among the team members. I’m eager to explore our options.
Bryn Cunningham, Head of Rugby Operations and Recruitment at Ulster Rugby, spoke on assembling the team for the 2024–25 season and beyond, saying: “We’re confident about what we’re developing for the upcoming seasons, even though there will be some changes to the overall squad’s look and size.
“These three athletes highlight the path our province is taking. James is a prime example of the homegrown athletes who are produced via our provincial clubs and educational system and go on to play at the highest levels for Ulster.
He has enjoyed rising to prominence as a leader within the team and will be crucial to Ulster’s future goals.
Tom’s performances in the white of Ulster and his ongoing involvement with Ireland demonstrate his development as a tighthead prop. The fact that he still has his finest years ahead of him excites his admirers.
“Sean has had an incredible impact on the games he has played, both in terms of enthusiasm and involvement, despite his regrettable history of injuries. I’m eager to see how he continues to influence the upcoming seasons.
Be the first to comment