Tom Stewart has put pen to paper on a two-year deal for Ulster Rugby to keep the Belfast-born front row at home until at least 2028.
The 25-year-old has made himself a valuable member of Richie Murphy’s side and has impressed since coming back from an injury-hit season last year, scoring six tries in all competitions so far.
An accomplished hooker for the Ulstermen, the former Ulster Schools Player of the Year knows that at the Affidea Stadium, he can continue to grow and develop as a player.
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“Ulster Rugby is my home club and the team I always grew up wanting to play for,” said Stewart.
“I’m honoured to sign on for a further two seasons, and I’m fully focused on continuing to improve my game to help the team move forward.
“I’m hugely ambitious about what we can achieve as a club in the future and what we continue to push for this season.”
Tom Stewart hopes to add to his five caps for Irealnd so far as he continues to impress for Ulster. PICTURE: Brian Little
A five-time Ireland international, Stewart made a statement in November, when he captained an Ireland XV against Spain, as he pushes for more senior international caps in a stacked position group.
Former Ireland captain and hooker, and now Ulster Rugby General Manager, Rory Best, can sense that the progress that Stewart is seeking is on its way.
“Tom has been benefitting from consistent minutes and fitness this season and it’s clear that his ball- carrying ability and threat around the maul are key weapons for us going forward,” said Best, who played 218 times for the province at hooker.
“He is a mature character for his age and certainly has leadership qualities that will continue to grow in the years ahead.
“We see him as an important player for both Ulster and Ireland in the years ahead.”
Ulster take on Stade Français in Belfast in the ECPR Challenge Cup pool stages, so Stewart could be celebrating his commitment with a memorable win over the ‘La Pink Army’.