The Ospreys have signed up 20-year old prop, Ollie Evans, on a development contract after he impressed in the Swalec Championship with Narberth RFC last season.
Capable of playing on either side of the scrum, Evans, from Haverfordwest, will work with the ‘B’ group of players in preparation for the new season.
In the second year of a planning degree at Cardiff University, he will continue with his studies while pursuing his rugby aspirations.
Speaking about his opportunity with the region, Evans said:
“I’m apprehensive about the challenge but excited about being an Osprey. I’ve never been part of a professional environment before so it’s going to be a step up for me, but I know I’m going somewhere where I can improve my game.
“It’s a big ask to establish myself at the Ospreys with the quality players they have in the squad. It’s going to be hard work with a lot of effort required and I’m prepared to do that. I’m really grateful to be given this chance and I want to give it my best shot.”
Rugby General Manager, Andrew Millward, welcomed the youngster to the Ospreys, saying:
“Ollie has been identified by Recruitment and Retention Manager, Andy Lloyd, and his scouting team, as someone with the raw ingredients to potentially become an Osprey.
“The door is never shut to individuals who show that they have the potential to be an Osprey. We are always looking at the talent that is out there, even if they have never been a part of any regional development programme, as is the case with Ollie.
“Now that he is going to be in and around our environment he will get all the support and assistance he needs if he is going to fulfill his potential. He is a good character with the right attitude and desire, who wants to improve as a player and as a person.
“It’s important that he understands that this development contract doesn’t mean he has made it. This is just the beginning for Ollie. Now that he is part of our development pathway he is in the best place to hopefully kick on and really thrive in our environment.”