Ferris Agrees New Ulster Contract

 Ulster flanker Stephen Ferris has agreed a new contract to stay at Ravenhill. Ferris, who has not played since suffering an ankle injury against Edinburgh in November of last year, signed a sixth month contract. This will allow him to continue working with Ulster’s medical team and the strength and conditioning team, with the aim of making a return to playing for Ulster and signing a longer deal to remain in Belfast.

 Ferris has played 102 times for Ulster since making his debut in 2005. He quickly developed into a crucial member of the Ulster team and was vital in the run to the 2012 Heineken Cup final, putting in a heroic man of the match effort in the famous quarter final win against Munster at Thomond Park. However a spell of injuries led to Ulster management and fans alike becoming resigned to the prospect of losing the back rower. A lucrative move to Japan was on the cards so the news comes as a massive boost to the province.

 Ferris spoke of his delight following the signing of his new contract. He said “I am delighted that I can continue my recovery and rehab from injury within the Ulster Rugby set-up. I believe that working with the medical team at Ulster, along with the excellent strength and conditioning coaches, offers me the best chance of regaining full fitness and of representing Ulster and Ireland again.”

 Ulster’s Director of Rugby, David Humphreys, was also pleased with the news about Ferris. He said “Stephen has had a difficult year with the injuries that he has suffered, but when he is fit, there is no doubt that he is one of the best back-row forwards in the game. Stephen is passionate about playing for Ulster and Ireland and our aim in giving him this contract extension is to provide him with the best possible care to enable him to get back playing”.