A stalwart of Dan McFarland’s side, 32-year-old Warwick is a dependable prop who is highly valued by the Head Coach for his ability, attitude, and work ethic in Ulster’s front row. Approaching 200 appearances for the province, the Ballymena man is one of the most experienced and relied-upon members of the squad, which is reflected in his new two-year deal.
On remaining with his home club, Warwick, said:
“I’m delighted to have extended my contract with Ulster. It’s always a privilege to represent my home province. I look forward to continuing to do my part to help the team be successful.”
The services of Belfast-born flanker, Dave McCann, have also been secured with the 22-year-old signing an extension to remain with the club until at least 2025. The former captain of a Schools Cup-winning RBAI side, who has also skippered the Ireland U20s, has long been earmarked as a future leader.
McCann has made an important impact this season in the BKT United Rugby Championship, including in Ulster’s festive win over Interpro rival Connacht, and the Heineken Champions Cup with his mature performances in Ulster’s back row.
Speaking on securing his future with Ulster, McCann, said:
“I’m so glad to have signed on with Ulster for another year. Having grown-up here, it’s a pleasure to continue the journey with a squad heading in the right direction.”
Fellow Ulster Rugby Academy product, Ben Moxham, has also penned a new two-year deal to keep him at the province. The Larne native scored his first try for the province in the BKT URC with a try against DHL Stormers in a bonus point win in front of a home crowd at Kingspan Stadium at the start of this year.
The 21-year-old is seen as a promising option in Ulster’s back line, and has already made an impression in an international setting with the Ireland U20s.
Concluding today’s contract announcements, Moxham, said:
“I’m really excited to be staying on at Ulster. There’s something special building, and it’s great to be a part of it.”
Head Coach, Dan McFarland, said:
“It’s great to have Andy, Dave and Ben extending their contracts. As a senior player, Andy has demonstrated a toughness and work ethic that means he continues to develop his game, which is exactly the kind of player we love.
“Dave and Ben are both young players pushing hard to improve their games. Both have earned spots in big games, and I’m sure are hungry to find the next level in what are very competitive areas for us.”