Ulster have announced the signing of tight-head prop Corrie Barrett.
Barrett, a former Schools Cup winner with RBAI in 2015/16, has signed on for the rest of the season after arriving on a trail during the summer.
With no date in sight for Marty Moore’s return from injury and Tom O’Toole expected to move to loose-head, Ulster were becoming light on the ground at number three, and Barrett has been rewarded for two solid displays in pre-season against Benetton and Exeter respectively.
“Corrie has come in and performed very well during his trial over pre-season, being particularly solid at set-piece. He has had a unique rugby journey, proving it’s not always a straight line to where you want to get to, but that hard work can get you there,” says Ulster Rugby’s Head of Recruitment and Rugby Operations, Bryn Cunningham.
“He provides us with a good option in an area of the squad where our Senior depth is quite limited due to injury and international representation. We look forward to him making a positive impact in our Senior Men’s team for the months ahead, and most importantly his continuous improvement as a player,” added Cunningham.
Barrett, who has also turned out at loose-head, has previously been involved in the Ulster Rugby pathway, having played for Ulster U19s and Ulster ‘A’ before.
His rugby journey has also seen him lineout for Garryowen RFC, Munster ‘A’, Bedford Blues, Saracens, and most recently, Doncaster Knights in the RFU Championship last season.
“I’m delighted to sign with Ulster. As a youngster, it was always my goal to play for the club. After four seasons in England, I’m excited about coming back home and getting to play with my home province,” said Barrett.
“I’m thankful to Bryn and Richie (Murphy) for the opportunity, and I’m enjoying working with all the coaches. The setup has been very welcoming and seamless, having played with a few of the lads at Age-Grade level. I can already see with the calibre of players and coaches here; my game will improve.”