Ulster have announced the signing of Newry-born Shea O’Brien on a one-year development contract.
Full-back O'Brien will join up with the province this summer after impressing with City of Armagh where he won the Bank of Ireland Senior Cup back in March 2020.
The 22-year-old was named player of the match in that final, and was also crowned the 2019/20 Ken Goodall Club Player of the Year in the Ulster Rugby Domestic Rugby Awards.
Read more: Ulster star Mike Lowry to stand tall against Italy, predict Andy Farrell and James Lowe
O’Brien will be joining the Senior Men’s set-up this coming pre-season, alongside completing his medicine degree at Queen's University Belfast.
Head Coach, Dan McFarland said: “Shea exemplifies a player who has taken a less traditional route to being involved in the professional set-up at Ulster.
"He impressed in our Development side last September, and I am excited for what he will bring to our squad next season as a result of being nurtured through club rugby in the province.”
O’Brien added: “I am delighted to have signed a Development contract with Ulster Rugby.
"The squad and coaching staff have already made me feel very welcome. The group are ambitious and I’m very excited and privileged to be a part of it. I hope to use this opportunity to learn more and develop myself as a rugby player.
“I’d like to extend a sincere thanks to everyone at City of Armagh Rugby club for the continued support they have given me in my journey from the Mini setup, through the youth system, and into Senior rugby.
"I have worked with some great coaches and players along the way, and I will be forever grateful for this.”
Read more: Ulster vs Toulouse dates, kick-off times and TV info confirmed
Read more: Ulster winger Robert Baloucoune has a vital ingredient to star in 6 Nations, says Dan Soper
Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox.
