GLASGOW WARRIORS have agreed contract extensions with full-back Ollie Smith, centre Stafford McDowall and centre/stand-off Tom Jordan, on deals for the now customary undisclosed period of time.
“We’re delighted that Ollie, Stafford and Tom have re-committed to the club,” said head coach Danny Wilson. “We’re really pleased with the way Ollie had developed physically with our strength and conditioning staff and how the has transferred that to the pitch with some brilliant performances recently. It’s great to see another young Scottish player come through.
“Stafford is a great leader, really popular member of the squad, and has a great worth ethic. He has improved his performances this season and we’re looking forward to having him for upcoming campaign.
Super6 Sprint: Ayrshire Bulls aim to rain on Watsonians’ victory parade
Five South African teams to play in ‘Europe’ next season
Men’s Under-20s summer tournament to be played in Italy
“Tom’s work ethic and drive is impressive. He’s continued his outstanding form in the Super6 and his drive to continue to learn and develop is clear for everyone to see.
“All three are great young talents and we’re looking forward to continuing to work with them in the seasons ahead.”
21-year-old Smith, who has made himself a regular in the team this season and is expected to tour South America with Scotland this summer, added: “This is my boyhood club and I never even considered moving anywhere else.
“It’s a brilliant environment here. I love working with the coaching staff, the playing group is a great mix of boys and I’m really loving my rugby.
“This season’s been a massive one for me, personally. I’ve just tried to make the most of every opportunity that’s come my way, and the coaches have been great with me, from pointing out the areas I need to work on to giving me the freedom to play my own game.
“There’s a real onus on giving us licence to play and express ourselves – Nigel Carolan is big on that with the backs, and having someone like Pete Murchie to pick the brain of as a former back-three player is massive for me. Those two and Danny have really helped me to advance my game this year.
“It’s also brilliant to have guys like Rory Darge, Rufus McLean, Murphy Walker and Ross Thompson that I’ve come through the age grades with now as team-mates at Glasgow. It’s a really special feeling and it’s a really cool thing to be a part of.”
24-year-old McDowall, who has played 10 times for the club this season, said: “This is my home club and it means a lot for me to play here and get the chance to represent my family and my hometown and local club of Stewartry every time I pull on the jersey.
“I’m excited for what’s to come at the club and this squad is only to get stronger. Everyone would agree that the signings we’ve made this year have made a massive impact and I think the all the ones coming in next season will do the same.
“I’ve really enjoyed my rugby recently. I believe the only way to develop and get better is to get on the pitch so for Danny and the coaches to have the confidence in me to put me out there in some big games has been great and I’ve really enjoyed it.
“My goal is always to get on the pitch as much as possible. I want to play every week, maximising my game time and reaching my potential.”
New Zealand-born Jordan is yet to feature for the club having picked up his first deal by impressing for Ayrshire Bulls in Super6. The 23-year-old said: “I’m really excited to be staying with the club and I’m looking forward to pushing forward next season and really making an impact at Glasgow,” Jordan told glasgowwarriors.org.
“I want to push my rugby as high as possible and I believe Glasgow is the best place for me to do that – It’s an awesome environment and a great group of guys.
“I’m happy with how I’ve been going down at the Bulls this season and want to keep building on that this summer to prepare me ahead of preseason and the upcoming season.
“My whole focus is on earning my chance to play for Glasgow and I can’t wait to get the opportunity.”
- The Offside Line’s coverage of Glasgow Warriors is powered by McCrea Financial Services.
- McCrea Financial Services sponsor Glasgow Warriors and provide a wide range of financial advisory services including mortgage, pension and retirement planning advice. See www.mccreafs.co.uk to contact them for more information.
