Newcastle Falcons’ preparations for the 2016-17 season continue to progress with the news that forward quartet Calum Green, Glen Young, Santiago Socino and Andrew Foster have all agreed new contracts.
Second-rower Green, 25, has made 42 first-team appearances since joining the club from Yorkshire Carnegie two years ago, the Norfolk native having come through Leicester Tigers’ academy.
Director of rugby Dean Richards said: “Calum has had a huge amount of game time since joining us and brings a lot to our forward pack. He has massive enthusiasm, gets through his work and is a valuable member of our senior squad.”
Back-five forward Young, 21, is a former Scotland Under-20s cap who has spent most of the season on loan with Greene King IPA Championship club Doncaster Knights, for whom he appeared during last night’s play-off final against Bristol.
Richards said: “Glen has benefited hugely from his year with Doncaster and we will look to integrate him more within our own squad next season. He has matured a lot over the last 12 months and it is great news that we have been able to agree this new contract.”
Socino, 24, is the younger brother of Falcons centre Juan Pablo Socino, the Argentinean this season converting from the back-row to hooker.
Richards said: “Santi is a real talent around the park who offers a lot of impact. He is getting to grips with playing in the front-row and has gone well there for Darlington Mowden Park in National One this year, where he was recently named coaches’ player of the season. We look forward to his continued progression as a hooker and are glad to have him on board.”
Foster, 22, completes the forward foursome, the North East native having stepped up from National One side Blaydon.
The prop has already made three first-team appearances including his recent Aviva Premiership debut at Saracens, having previously played against Brive and Enisei-STM in the European Challenge Cup.
Richards said: “Andrew has had to be patient in terms of his senior game time but has put in an incredible amount of hard work in training and at Blaydon. His dual-registration has proved useful as he continues to develop, and he is one of many local lads around whom our squad is being built.”
Season ticket memberships for 2016-17 are available now by 0871 226 6060 or visiting www.newcastle-falcons.co.uk .