Darren Cave, Chris Henry and Stuart Philpott who all came through the Ulster Rugby Academy system have each spent one year as a development player under the tutelage of some of the more senior players.

Matt Williams who spoke last week of the importance of having Ulster men playing for Ulster said this today, “It is great to secure some of our young shining lights so we can build up our squad and ensure that the home grown talent continues to pull on the white jersey”

Chris Henry said this of his contract news, “I am over the moon to have signed, obviously the start of the season was tough but things are looking a lot brighter, Matt Williams has done a great job so far and I am just so happy to be given the opportunity to stay at Ulster and be part of this bright future. Darren, Stuart and myself have all come through the Ulster Rugby Academy which is a great system and it is brilliant to see so many Ulster boys given the chance to play for their province”

Darren Cave was also pleased to have signed his contract, "Matt Williams has made a great impact on the whole squad. Matt as well as the rest of the management are starting to build something that I want to be a part of and I am delighted to be involved for another year"