Connacht announce three new signings
Connacht Rugby have today announced the signings of Ulster duo Niall O’Connor and Mark McCrea along with the re-signing of former Connacht favourite George Naoupu from Japan for next season.
Niall O’Connor will join Connacht on a two-year contract at the end of the current campaign. The talented outhalf, who attended Limavady Grammar School, entered the Ulster Academy in 2006 and signed a professional contract with them in 2007.
O’Connor, 23, has 51 caps for Ulster and represented Ireland at U19, U20 and A level, and was also a member Eric Elwood’s Irish U20 squad that clinched the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2007.
O’Connor’s colleague Mark McCrea, who plays on the wing, joined the Ulster Academy in 2006 and turned professional in 2008. He has 25 caps for Ulster and has represented Ireland at Schools and A level.
The burly winger will also join Connacht on two-year contract deal from next season
George Naoupu will return to Connacht for the 2011/2012 season. The giant backrower joined the western province in 2009 before being lured away by the Kobe Steelers in Japan.
He appeared 14 times in his six-month spell at Connacht, including scoring a try in Connacht's famous victory over Bourgoin in the Amlin Challenge Cup quarter-final.
Naoupu has represented New Zealand Schools, U19, Colts and 7’s and will rejoin Connacht on a two-year contract.
CEO of Connacht Rugby Gerry Kelly welcomed today’s announcement.
“We are delighted with the news that these players are joining Connacht; McCrea and O’Connor are both outstanding players and they will no doubt add an extra dimension to our backline,” he said.
“Recalling George Naoupu from Japan is a big move for us, he was exceptional for Connacht in 2009 and a big loss to the squad when he moved last year. George is a dynamic ball carrier and inspirational player to those around him so we are looking forward to his return.”
