Jack Banks, Tom McGuinness and Oga Mabaya are the latest three players to commit themselves to Preston Grasshoppers RFC for the 2015/16 season.
2nd Row Banks became an important part of the squad as the season progressed and racked up 13 appearances including 10 starts. His highlight of the season must undoubtedly have been playing against his younger brother Tommy who lined up for Caldy in April. Thankfully Jack got to take the bragging rights home! On his decision to sign on for another season Jack said “I’ve re-signed with the club because of the culture and the dynamic between the firsts and seconds. Alan Holmes as the new Director of Rugby will bring a different edge to the lads and it will be exciting to see what develops.”
Props McGuinness (7) and Mabaya (12) made 19 appearances between them as the season progressed as well as starring for the 2nd XV in the Cup Final at Sandbach.
McGuinness can pack down on both sides of the scrum and has proved to be a very destructive scrummager in his appearances so far. Looking forward to next season Tom commented “I’m really looking forward to starting the season in September. I have re-signed because i feel that Preston is a great club to pay for. The facilities at the club have really improved with a full gym upgrade and training sessions being provided most days. I’m looking forward to another year with good friends and a strong team.”
Mabaya, already established as a firm fans favourite, made his debut in the 2010/11 season as a teenager. Until this season he has mainly been a 2nd XV regular but made the step up when called upon earlier in the season. His marauding runs and aggressive attitude make him a very exciting prospect indeed. On putting pen to paper Mabaya said “Hoppers is a fantastic club with great people around it. Ever since I moved from my home country of Zimbabwe 10 years ago Hoppers has made me feel welcome and I have never left. The reason I have re-signed is due to the brand of rugby we play and the group of lads all want to do well and help each other. I hope to do my part to make the club successful.”
Commenting on the re-signings new Director of Rugby Alan Holmes said “Tom, Oga and Jack have all three worked very hard to gain 1st XV honours, having started in the 2nd XV. All three have made themselves integral members of the 1st XV squad. I am delighted that these three young players have signed for another season as their work ethic and determination is pivotal to developing a robust and competitive squad.”
We look forward to seeing more of Jack, Tom and Oga on the pitch in the 2015/16 season.
