Ulster Trio Sign New Contracts With Province
Young back rower David McCann is pictured leading the charge for Ulster against Cardiff Blues last month ©INPHO/Robbie Stephenson
Ulster’s Andrew Warwick, David McCann and Ben Moxham will remain with the province until at least July 2025.
A stalwart of Dan McFarland’s side, the 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 playing on with the Ulstermen, Warwick admitted: “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 McCann have also been secured, with the 22-year-old signing an extension to remain with Ulster until at least 2025.
The former captain of a Ulster Schools Senior Cup-winning RBAI team, who has also skippered the Ireland Under-20s, 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 derby win over Connacht, and in the Heineken Champions Cup with his mature performances in Ulster’s back row.
Speaking about securing his immediate 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.”
Meanwhile, fellow Ulster Rugby Academy product Moxham has also penned a new two-year deal to keep him at the province.
The Larne native scored his first try for Ulster in the BKT URC, touching down against the DHL Stormers in a bonus point win 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 on the international stage with the Ireland Under-20s.
Concluding today’s contract announcements, Moxham commented: “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.”
Ulster head coach McFarland added: “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.”