Ulster Rugby: Adam D’Arcy Agrees New Contract (audio clip attached)

Ulster Rugby today confirmed that fullback Adam D’Arcy has signed a two year contract extension, keeping him at the club until 2013.

The 25 year old Irish-qualified Australian arrived in Belfast last summer, originally on a two week trial before being offered a year-long contract. He has since become a regular in the starting XV this season making 20 appearances for the province to date and scoring three tries.

D’Arcy, whose grandfather hails from Tipperary, was playing club rugby for Manly in Sydney when he was invited to Belfast for a two week trial last summer. Since then, he has impressed the coaching staff with his ability to counter attack and his excellent positioning in defence.

Adam D’arcy Audio Clip – CLICK HERE

“I’m very grateful to Ulster for giving me a chance on a one year contract this year. I’ve enjoyed my time here so far and think I’ve learned a lot and experienced a lot. I’m really looking forward to the next two years.”said D’Arcy

“We’ve shown this year that there’s a lot this team can do and we’re heading in the right direction and I want to be a part of that.”

“It took me a little while to settle once I arrived and find my feet, but since I’ve had the chance to start and cement my place in the team I’ve really enjoyed playing for Ulster and with guys like Andrew Trimble and Rory Best who are international calibre players. The coaching staff have really helped me improve my game and I feel that with the staff and this group of players I can go further and we can go further as a team.”

Ulster’s Director of Rugby David Humphreys said

“We brought in Adam last summer as an unknown prospect but he has certainly proved himself this season and has become an important member of our team

“If we want to compete at the highest level we need depth and quality in our squad and we feel that Adam adds just that to our line-up.”

Meanwhile, fellow fullback Jamie Smith has agreed to join Newport Gwent Dragons in the summer. The 22 year old has made 16 senior appearances Ulster since his breakthrough in 2009 and we wish him well for his future at Rodney Parade.