Rugby

Stuart McCloskey signs contract extension for Ulster rugby until 2019

Stuart McCloskey attempting another 'gain-line busting' run which Les Kiss and Ulster supporters have become so accustomed to. Picture by Mark Marlow, Pacemaker Press
Stuart McCloskey attempting another 'gain-line busting' run which Les Kiss and Ulster supporters have become so accustomed to. Picture by Mark Marlow, Pacemaker Press Stuart McCloskey attempting another 'gain-line busting' run which Les Kiss and Ulster supporters have become so accustomed to. Picture by Mark Marlow, Pacemaker Press

Ulster’s Player of the Year Stuart McCloskey has signed a new contract extension keeping him at the Kingspan Stadium until 2019.

The 23 year-old has had an impressive season for both club and country, making his debut for Ireland in this year’s RBS Six Nations against England at Twickenham, and has been rewarded with a contract extension.

The former Bangor Grammar student has been vital in the Centre of Ulster’s back line, scoring four tries in his 23 games this year in the Guinness PRO12 and European Champions Cup.

McCloskey made his debut for Ulster in February 2014 against Newport Gwent Dragons and has racked up 42 appearances since for the club.

The centre has expressed his delight at putting pen to paper and his commitment to the province despite heavy interest from elsewhere.

“I grew up here in Ulster and it was always a dream to pull on the jersey,'' he said.

“Despite some strong interest from other clubs, it was a fairly straightforward decision since all of my family and friends are here.

“The supporters, the facilities that we have and the quality of the coaching were all factors in my decision.

"We are developing strength in depth across the board and that will make us even more competitive next year. It's good for me to have some really strong competition for places in midfield because we push each other to improve.



"We had a disappointing finish to the season but I believe things are promising for the future and I'm excited to be part of that.”

McCloskey’s growing number of admirers includes Ulster's Director of Rugby Les Kiss who has talked of his elation at securing the Ulsterman’s signature:

"This is fantastic news for the club as Stuart has been one of our standout performers all season,'' Kiss said.

"A major strength of Stuart's is his gain-line busting runs, which we have used to great effect this season.

“In addition to his powerful carrying ability, his deft handling and decoy lines have also caused havoc for defences.

"Stuart's appetite to work with the coaches here to accelerate his development has resulted in a well-deserved first cap for Ireland. He is a major asset to Ulster Rugby and will continue to be so for years to come.”