Ulster Rugby has rewarded Tom Stewart, a dynamic hooker, with an upgraded contract that secures his position with the club until 2026. Stewart has quickly made a name for himself with his powerful performances since his senior debut for Ulster, where he immediately impressed by scoring a try and earning the Man of the Match title against Connacht. His ability to capitalize on opportunities, particularly through scoring tries from lineout mauls, has been central to his impact on the team.
Stewart’s rise within Ulster has been nothing short of remarkable. In the 2023 season of the United Rugby Championship (URC), he set a new record for the most tries scored in a single season, netting an impressive 16 tries. This performance established him as one of the key finishers in Ulster’s squad, particularly within the opposition’s 22-meter area. His consistent displays have made him a regular fixture in the team and a crucial player for Ulster’s game plans.
Before his professional career with Ulster, Stewart’s talent was evident from a young age. He shined in schools’ rugby, representing Belfast Royal Academy and earning the prestigious Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Player of the Year award in 2019. He further honed his skills in the international arena as part of the Ireland Under-20 squad for the 2020 Six Nations, a tournament cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stewart’s continued excellence led to further recognition at the international level. His standout performances for Ulster earned him a place in Ireland’s senior squad for the 2023 Six Nations Championship. Following that, he was also selected for the Ireland Rugby World Cup training squad, a testament to his growing stature in the rugby world. In August 2023, Stewart made his international debut in a match against Italy, marking yet another milestone in his flourishing career.
With this contract extension, Ulster Rugby has secured a rising star who is expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s future. Stewart’s trajectory is a testament to both his individual talent and the club’s faith in nurturing homegrown players. As Ulster continues to develop its squad for the coming seasons, Stewart’s presence will undoubtedly be vital to their ambitions in both domestic and international competitions【6†source】【8†source】.