Connacht Rugby have added talented young backs Ian Porter and Shane O’Leary to their squad for next season, with the duo signing two-year and one-year deals respectively with the province and the IRFU.
26-year-old scrumhalf Ian Porter joins from Ulster Rugby where he has been a part of the professional set up for three seasons. Progressing through the Ulster Academy, the Banbridge native went on to represent Ireland at Under-20 level where he was the designated goal-kicker, landing a memorable last minute penalty to win the match against Italy at the 2008 IRB Junior World Championship.
Over the last few seasons, Porter has proven himself at senior level with 11 PRO12 appearances under his belt, his speed of service and accuracy of pass being key features of his game. Known for his tactical kicking, Porter has also developed his place kicking abilities and combines this with his organisational abilities at the breakdown. This season he started in the Number 9 jersey against Glasgow Warriors and Connacht Rugby at the Sportsground.
21-year-old Shane O’Leary, who was born in Cork and raised in Co. Clare, signed with FC Grenoble’s Academy last summer straight from AIL side Young Munster.
The centre/outhalf was quick to make his mark at the French club this season, earning his first senior appearance in the Amlin Challenge Cup against Bayonne in October 2013. He went on to play four more games in the European competition, including a start at outside centre against Amlin semi-finalists London Wasps.
Before joining the growing Irish contingent in the Rhône-Alpes region, O’Leary spent the early part of last summer representing Canada, whom he is qualified to play for through his mother’s roots in New Brunswick, in the IRB Junior World Trophy in Chile. The top points scorer in the international competition, O’Leary helped Canada to the final where they were beaten by Italy U20’s.
Grenoble Coach Bernard Jackman describes the young back as “a very talented rugby player. He integrated incredibly well here at FCG this season and proved that he has a bright future. He will be missed here but we wish him all the best with Connacht.”
Commenting on the latest player signings, Head Coach Pat Lam said:
“It’s fantastic to have two more, young, Irish-qualified backs on board for next season. Both Ian and Shane will be valuable additions to the squad.
“Having someone like Shane who can play 13, 12 or 10 is a huge asset. Both himself and Ian have goal-kicking abilities and this is something we looked at when recruiting for the season ahead.”