The Ospreys region today confirmed that two outstanding young players hadsigned contract extensions Alun Wyn-Jones (Second Row) and James Hook (Outside Half) have committed themselves to Ospreys Rugby until the end of the 2008/ 2009 season
The Ospreys region today confirmed that two outstanding young players had
signed contract extensions
Alun Wyn-Jones (Second Row) and James Hook (Outside Half) have committed
themselves to Ospreys Rugby until the end of the 2008/ 2009 season
Alun Wyn-Jones is 21 years old, stands at 6ft 7in and weighs 18st 7lbs - he
is a Wales Under-21 international
James Hook is also 21 years old, stands at 6ft and weighs 12st 10lbs - he is
also a Wales Under-21 international
Comment from Regional Rugby Manager, Derwyn Jones:
"Successful sides strike the balance between having the optimum mix of
experienced players and young talent, and we are pleased to confirm contract
extensions for two of the most talented young players in Welsh rugby. James
Hook has had two outstanding seasons with a successful Neath side and he is
rewarded with a full time contract with the Ospreys. Alun-Wyn Jones stands 6 ft 7" tall and
originally hails from the Swansea club. He is combining a Professional Rugby career with
studying Law at Swansea University and has taken the opportunity to
impress within the professional environment. Alun has already tasted success
in an Ospreys shirt this season and formed what is potentially a key boiler house
partnership for us with Ian Evans. The Rugby Management are delighted that Alun
and James have committed their future to Ospreys Rugby .
The Academy structure in Wales has been active for a few seasons, and now we are seeing
evidence of it working. We at the Ospreys realise the value of the academy as being paramount
to the future successes of the region and are greatly appreciative of the work the WRU and in
particular Steve Lewis has done. Not only by seeking finance but also on the acquisition of key
personnel to manage the academies effectively "
Commenting on his new contract, James Hook said:
"There has been some speculation over my future over recent months but there
is only one place where I want to play professional rugby and that is with
the Ospreys. I am delighted to sign up for the next three years and I would like
to thank the Ospreys coaches and board for giving me this excellent opportunity.
I have enjoyed my time with Neath and I feel I have had enjoyed
the best facilities and coaches which has helped ensure I have achieved everything
I had hoped to date in my career. I hope now to achieve similar success in a fully
professional arena and signing with the Ospreys should give me this chance"
Comment from Alun-Wyn Jones:
"This season I feel I have properly started my professional career, having
now made a number of starts for the Ospreys. I am developing as a player
and as an individual within a hugely professional environment and I cannot
imaging playing for anyone else. I am looking forward to the next few years
and I hope they will be successful from both a personal and team
perspective. I would like to finally thank Swansea University for their
continued support of my Professional rugby career and also the Ospreys
Directors and coaches for the faith that they have shown in me."