By Daniel Noble
STUART McCloskey has signed a one-year contract extension with Ulster, agreeing to remain at the club until the end of the 2027/28 season.
The Bangor native is coming off the back of his best season to date, playing a starring role at centre as Ireland clinched the Triple Crown and being selected in the Six Nations team of the tournament.
His standout performances continued in the red and white shirt, helping the Ulster men qualify for the final of the European Challenge Cup.
Unfortunately, McCloskey was dealt a cruel blow ahead of the continental decider, suffering a hamstring injury in the latter stages of the semi-final clash with Exeter Chiefs.
He was ultimately ruled out of the showpiece at San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, Spain, where Ulster lost 59-26 to Montpellier, but his contributions over the course of the campaign cannot be denied.
The 33 year-old, who has made 217 appearances for the province, has now been rewarded with an additional year on his contract and feels ‘motivated’ for the future.
“I feel we are developing well as a team and showed last season that we can compete against strong sides by getting to a European final,” he said.
“There is some strong talent coming through here and playing on the international stage has given everyone a big lift.
“I’m really enjoying my rugby and feel very motivated to achieve more over the next couple of seasons, for both Ulster and Ireland.”
