28-year-old back-rower Rea has become a regular in Ulster matchday squads since making his debut against the Cheetahs in 2017. The athletic flanker is also an astute line-out operator, which makes him equally comfortable playing in the second row.
The Ballymena native has signed a two-year contract extension, which will see him remain at Kingspan Stadium until at least the summer of 2024.
Centre, and product of the Ulster Rugby Academy, James Hume has amassed nearly 50 appearances for the province since making his senior debut versus Munster in September 2018. The 23-year-old is set to hit the milestone this weekend if he plays in the upcoming United Rugby Championship interpro fixture versus Connacht at Kingspan Stadium.
A superb reader of the game, Belfast-born Hume has been recognised for his defensive abilities and eye for the try line through his involvement in the Ireland set-up, including earning his first international cap in the most recent Summer Series.
On a similar trajectory to Hume, tighthead prop and fellow Ulster Academy graduate, Tom O’Toole, made his senior debut in April 2018 versus Edinburgh, following outstanding performances for Ulster ‘A’ in the then British & Irish Cup.
Known for his astounding tackle success rate, and mobility around the park, O’Toole was also rewarded for his performances in an Ulster jersey by being called up for Ireland and making his international debut versus USA in July of this year.
On the two-year extensions, Head Coach Dan McFarland, said:
“It is great that Matty, James and Tom have bought into what we are trying to achieve as a club and, because of this, are prepared to further commit themselves to the province.
“All three add a huge amount to the squad, with Matty demonstrating his value as a lineout operating and ball carrying 6. Tom is still a young tighthead but has already earned international recognition for his relentless workrate and physicality. James has made a big breakthrough this year, adding consistency in his fundamentals to a top-class ability to beat defenders.
“I look forward to seeing what the next two years hold for this group of young players."