By Jonathan Brown
ZAC Ward is set to join the Ulster Rugby senior men’s team for an “extended trial period.”
Ballynahinch man Ward, recently starred for the Ireland rugby seven’s team at the Paris Olympics, helping his side to a sixth place finish.
The former Ballynahinch RFC man was one of Ireland’s best performers over the course of the tournament, bagging four tries, including one against Fiji, the most successful men’s sevens team in Olympic history, and a superb solo effort against tournament favourites New Zealand.
The former Down High pupil was an integral member of the men’s team at Ballymacarn Park before going full time with the Ireland sevens programme two years ago.
His father, Andy, played for Ulster between 1997 and 2005, making 119 appearances.
Commenting on the forward’s arrival, Ulster Rugby’s Head of Rugby Operations and Recruitment, Bryn Cunningham, said, “It’s great to be welcoming Zac into the squad, as we ramp up preparations for the new season.
“Zac is coming off the back of a successful period playing with the national sevens set-up, and we feel this is a good opportunity for him to bring his skills and qualities into the group in the weeks ahead.”
Ward will join Richie Murphy’s side on a trial basis until the autumn international window.