Winger Zach Kibirige is the latest Newcastle Falcons to agree with a new deal with the club, as the Yarm born back readies himself for a return to action, following a year’s absence through injury.
Signing for the Falcons Academy after played his junior rugby with local side Darlington RFC, Kibirige was part of the Yarm School side that won the Daily Mail Vase at Twickenham in 2013 before impressing through a host of Under 18s and A Team games for the club,
He made his senior début for the club in October 2012, against Welsh side Cross Keys in the British and Irish Cup at the age of 17. After scoring a try in that match which showcased his speed and attacking prowess, Kibirige continued to play a part in the Falcons’ cup set-up throughout the remainder of the 2012-13 season.
The 20 year old made an impressive impact during season 2013/14, showcasing pace and guile in cup competitions and scoring a wonder try in an U20s 6 Nations international against Wales at Kingston Park.
In the midst of his Aviva Premiership début against Gloucester he suffered a fractured dislocated ankle but Kibirige is now ready to get his career back on track after agreeing a new one year contract.
Kibirige said: “I’m excited to get back playing and put the last year behind me after the injury and then just crack on from where I left off.”
“The club said they were happy with how I was progressing and that has ended up with me getting a new deal and earning another year to continue learning and kick on which I am very happy about”
Newcastle Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards said: “Zach is a very talented player who has shown his speed and skill from when he joined the academy and enjoyed a very impressive season last year.”
“He played very well for us in the European Challenge Cup and LV= Cup and had fully earned his first Aviva Premiership start, where he was playing well until he picked up his injury, which he has now put behind him.”
“When you look back at some of the play he showed since 2012, you can see why we are excited about Zach and why we’re delighted he has agreed a new deal with us.”