Preston Grasshoppers RFC is delighted to announce that Sean Taylor has rejoined the club on a 2 year contract after spending last season with Northern Irish club Ballymena RFC.
During his first spell with the club Sean broke the record for the most points in a season by a Preston Grasshoppers player when he racked up 336 points in the 2012/13 season. Having made his debut back in the 2009/10 season, Sean went on to make 131 appearances for the 1st XV and scoring an impressive 535 points which includes 51 tries. Most of Sean’s appearances came on the wing and at full-back.
Whilst playing for Hoppers Sean was also called up to represent Lancashire and also toured Belgium with the England Counties squad. The honours continued at Ballymena where Sean was named Player of the Year last season.
Sean on tour in Belgium with England Counties
The club is also pleased that Sean will be resuming his role as Community Rugby Coach for the club, taking over from Phil Mills who is joining Fylde for next season. Chairman of Rugby Michael Bailey was keen to point out that this signing will not only benefit the 1st XV but the whole club by saying “We’re happy that Sean has agreed to take on the Community Coaching role at the club again. During his first spell in the role he made a great difference in the community. This work was continued by Phil who I’d like to make a point of thanking for all his effort. This club has so much more to offer than just the 1st XV playing on a Saturday. Sean will be an integral part of growing our presence throughout the community in Preston.”
Sean in action as community coach during his first spell with Hoppers
On his time at Ballymena Sean said “For the past year I have been over in Northern Ireland playing rugby for Ballymena. It’s been a huge honour to wear the jersey. I will forever be grateful to them, both for the way they welcomed me and supported me. All the lads and members are fantastic and I will be sorry to go.”
Looking to this season he added “Moving forward, I feel that it’s time to focus on my career. Having had a few offers, knowing Hoppers and the people behind the scenes made it an easy choice. I can’t wait to be back playing with the lads, especially my good mates Jack Walker and Harry Reddick. I am excited for the season ahead, which I’m sure will be a successful one!”
New Director of Rugby Alan Holmes seemed delighted with Sean’s signing when he said “I am very happy that Sean has agreed to sign on a two year deal, he adds more quality in to an already exciting backline. He brings a running attack which teams will not want to kick to and with additions like Sean to our squad it really strengthens our campaign for the 2015/16 season.”
Welcome back Sean. We can’t wait to see you on the pitch again!
