While the Ireland men's rugby sevens team would experience a disappointing end to their Olympic campaign, quite a few players involved with the squad in Paris came away from the games with plenty of credit in the bank.
Ireland would produce some impressive performances, losing in heartbreaking circumstances against both New Zealand and Fiji. Had a couple of key moments gone the other way in those games, they may well have found themselves on the podium.
Of those who featured in the Olympics, Zac Ward was arguably the most impressive of the bunch. The 25-year old put in some brilliant displays, something that has now caught the attentions of those in the 15-a-side game.
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Irish Olympic Rugby Star Set To Go On Trial To Earn Provincial Deal
Ulster Rugby announced this afternoon that Zac Ward has joined the province on a trial basis, with the sevens star hoping to earn a contract with the team over the coming weeks.
We can confirm that Ireland Sevens star, Zac Ward, will be joining the Senior Men's squad on a trial basis 🤝
More below ⬇️— Ulster Rugby (@UlsterRugby) August 19, 2024
Ward is a native of Ballynahinch in County Down and was previously part of the academy setup at Ulster prior to moving into the sevens code.
He will now return to the province as part of an extended trial, one that will last until at least the autumn international period.
Ulster Rugby’s Head of Rugby Operations and Recruitment Bryn Cunningham had this to say about player's addition:
It’s great to be welcoming Zac into the squad, as we ramp up preparations for the new season.
Zac is coming off the back of a successful period playing with the national Sevens set-up, and we feel this is a good opportunity for him to bring his skills and qualities into the group in the weeks ahead.
Successful sevens players moving to 15-a-side game is not uncommon, with Hugo Keenan perhaps the most high profile example in recent times.
At 25-years old, Zac Ward will be hoping that he can make a big impact in the game moving forward.