Connacht have announced their first signing for next season and it comes in the form of Piers O'Conor from Premiership side Bristol Bears.
A 28-year-old centre, O'Conor has been part of the Bristol set up under Pat Lam since 2018 having began his career with Wasps and Ealing Trailfinders. He's been a stalwart for them over the years and has already racked up over 130 appearances.
The player is Irish qualified through a grandfather from Roscommon. He has spent the vast majority of his career at outside centre, but has also deputised at inside centre as well as having a few games on the wing and fullback.
Coming West 🔜 @OConorPiers 🟢🦅#ConnachtRugby pic.twitter.com/DECHp6F4iv
— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) April 29, 2024
Piers O'Conor Signing Could Be Sign Of Change At Connacht
Upon the announcement of the move ,Piers O'Conor spoke about his experiences playing in Galway and his excitement to play there next season.
I’m really excited to be taking the next steps of my career at Connacht. After chatting to Pete and the wider team I was really impressed by their plans, and the role I could play in the squad going forward.
My first experience of Dexcom Stadium was during COVID when no fans were allowed in, but after coming back in January I was blown away by their passion and the deep connection they seem to have with the squad, so I can’t wait to represent them and the wider province from next season.
I know there are exciting plans for the stadium as well, so I’m looking forward to seeing that come to life too.
O'Conor's arrival looks to all but confirm the rumours that Tom Farrell is set to leave the Westerners. Farrell has been a regular for Connacht since making his debut in 2017, but it looks like he's is set to join current Connacht teammate Diarmuid Kilgallen down in Munster from next season as Munster look likely to lose Antoine Frisch.
Connacht have put a big emphasis on bringing through academy players this season, with the last few weeks seeing graduates Shane Jennings, Matthew Devine and Oisín McCormack all sign pro contracts. The likes of Byron Ralston and Andrew Smith have both signed extensions to stay on in Galway past next year.
We could be beginning to see the start of a new era at Connacht from next season with an experienced pro like O'Conor in the mix it Connacht could be a team to watch out for next season.
Should things go well for him, he could come into the Ireland picture in the not too distant future.
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