Since making his senior Ulster debut against Munster in December 2020, eleven years to the day since he ran out as a mascot against the same opposition, scrum-half Nathan Doak has caught the eye of Ulster supporters because of his kicking abilities and maturity.
The Irish U20s international, who was awarded a Development contract for the 21/22 season, has now signed a four-year senior contract, which will keep the 20-year-old at Kingspan Stadium until at least the summer of 2026.
Centre, Stuart McCloskey, who is known for his mix of pace, power, and intelligence on both sides of the ball has signed a three-year extension. A regular in Ulster matchday squads, McCloskey has racked-up almost 150 appearances for his province and has been recognised internationally in his regular call-ups to the Ireland squad each season.
Back three player, Ethan McIlroy, burst onto the scene when he made his debut against Leinster in December 2019. Since signing a Development contract for this season, the former Irish U20s player from Belfast has featured regularly on senior teamsheets, which has resulted in him being rewarded with a new three-year senior contract, which secures him for the province until at least 2025.
Of the latest signings, Head Coach Dan McFarland said:
“To have three Ulster-born players sign long-term for the upcoming seasons is testament to their commitment to the province they developed their game in.
“With Stuart having established himself as a strong defender, ball-carrier and play-maker, while Nathan and Ethan are two exciting young prospects who have already proven themselves at a senior level, it’s clear that all three will play an important role in our ambitions as a club in the upcoming seasons.”