• Fri. Mar 29th, 2024

North East Connected

Hopping Across The North East From Hub To Hub

Fly Half Willis agrees new Falcons contract

Newcastle_Falcons_logo.svgCraig Willis will continue to play at Kingston Park until at least 2018 having agreed a new contract with Newcastle Falcons following an impressive 2015/16 season.

The 21 year old fly half, who has been a member of the Falcons Senior Academy structure this season, has made a total of 14 appearances to date across Premiership and European competition.

Having made his Aviva Premiership debut from the bench against Saracens at Kingston Park back in December, Willis has announced himself as a talented player with some eye catching performances in a Falcons shirt.

In his first home start, Willis showed tremendous composure under pressure as he scored 14 of his side’s points in a 19-14 win over Bath Rugby and has continued his development since, playing alongside Andy Goode.

A player who enjoys attacking the line with the ball in hand, Stockton-born Willis played his junior rugby with Billingham RFC before beginning his sixth form studies at Durham School. The Fly Half has represented the North of England at Under 16 and Under 18 level.

With the club proud of the growing number of academy graduates forming part of its match day 23’s, Willis’ re-signing is an important and one that will see the talented North East native continue to grow, through further game time at the top level of the game.

Newcastle Falcons Director of Rugby Dean Richards said: “Craig has done very well this season and we are pleased to have agreed a new deal with him. He has taken the opportunities that have come his way this season and really made a mark.”

“We want the Falcons to be a club that represents the region with home grown talents playing in the shirt and Craig certainly fits into that category. At 21, he has plenty still to learn and will do that by being part of the Falcons squad and getting regular game time in top competitions.”

Craig Willis said: “Coming into the season, I got a bit of game time in the Kings of the North and then through injuries I’ve had a couple of opportunities in the Premiership which has let me find a bit of confidence and to push on as a player.”

“It has been good to get the opportunities I have had this year and I feel there is more to give starting with pressing on with the rest of this season, before coming back in pre season.”

By admin