The 21-year-old has made an impressive impact in the senior team this season, after making his debut back in October against the Lions at Ellis Park.
Ward would continue to perform when given the opportunity, shown by a try-scoring Player of the Match performance against Munster in January.
Later in the same month, he would shine in his maiden European home start against Stade Français, picking up his second Player of the Match award of the month.
The Ballynahinch man, and younger brother of senior wing Zac Ward, can play at openside flanker or at number eight, allowing him to show his power and physicality around the contact area.
Ward recently made an impression in the national set-up, with a call up to the Irish senior squad during the Guinness Six Nations after being named as a training panellist before the Championship.
A former Irish U20s player, he also represented Ireland XV against England ‘A’ at Thomond Park in February.
Ward has been identified as a player of high potential for some time, after being a key figure of the Royal Belfast Academical Institution side who won the Danske Bank Schools’ Cup back in 2023. Ward’s line break provided the key platform for the match-winning try in injury time.
The young back-row has also gained valuable playing experience in the All-Ireland-League Division 1A with his club, Ballynahinch RFC.
Commenting on his new deal, Ward said:
“I am very happy to sign my first senior contract with Ulster Rugby; it’s always been a dream of mine to wear the jersey and I’ve managed to fulfil that this season.
“I’m taking everything in my stride and enjoying the pressure that comes with playing at this level. I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead and feel driven to keep improving my game as a senior player next year!”
Ulster Rugby’s General Manager, Rory Best, said:
“Bryn’s standout performances have been a fantastic success story for us this season.
“Credit goes to Bryn for taking his opportunities and the coaching staff within our Academy system and Senior team who have prepared him to perform at professional level.
“He has shown in a short space of time that he is a player with so much potential, especially around his ball-carrying ability. For a young player, he also has a strong mentality which has allowed him to settle in quickly.
“We are as excited as our supporters to see him continue to develop as an Ulster player in the future.”