TIGHTHEAD PROP RODNEY Ah You will move from Connacht to Ulster next season.
Ah You believes the interprovincial transfer will ”allow me to reach my potential and help me to realise my ambitions in the game.” The front row cited his desire to add to his three Ireland caps as a motivation in making the move.
The 27-year-old signed for Connacht in 2010, going on to qualify for Ireland on residency terms three years later.
Having represented his native New Zealand up to U20 level, Ah You won his first Ireland cap under Joe Schmidt on the tour of Argentina in 2014. The prop added to that debut by coming off the bench against South Africa and Georgia in November of the same year.
Connacht are disappointed to lose a man they have invested heavily in since his arrival from Canterbury in 2010, but say they have to accept Ah You’s decision to take up an offer from Ulster.
“We’d like to wish Rodney and his family all the best in Belfast and with Ulster,” said Connacht head coach Pat Lam.
“While disappointed not to have him playing as part of the Connacht squad next year, we respect the player’s individual decision. I know Rodders wants to do everything he can for the remainder of the season to help the team and his teammates achieve our goals.”
Ah You will compete with Wiehahn Herbst and Ricky Lutton for the number three shirt under Les Kiss at Ulster next season.
“I want say a huge thank you to Connacht Rugby for all the support they have given to me and my family over the past five years,” said Ah You of his move.
“There is a huge few weeks and months ahead with Connacht, and I want to play my part in helping the team finishing the season on a high.”
Ulster, meanwhile, welcomed the new signing.
“We are delighted that Rodney has decided to commit to Ulster as he will add real strength to our front row department,” said Kiss.
“As a 27-year-old prop, there is still room for him to develop and as a coaching group we will endeavour to get the very best out of Rodney.
“As a squad, when you are competing on a number of fronts, it is essential to have depth across all areas to sustain high performance levels throughout the season. It has been pleasing to see that depth develop in recent months, particularly with the emergence of Kyle McCall at loosehead, and this will further enhance our front row resources.”
