Back rower earns Ospreys contract

May 16 • General News, Guinness Pro14 • 1446 Views • Comments Off on Back rower earns Ospreys contract

The Ospreys have made Argentine back rower, Guido Volpi, their latest recruit after he impressed on trial with the Region last month.

The 22-year old, who can play at number eight and blindside flanker, will join up with the squad for pre-season training ahead of the new campaign.

Part of his country’s high performance programme as a youngster, Volpi played for CUQ Rugby in Buenos Aires before heading to France last summer to sign for Narbonne, captaining the club in the ‘Espoirs’ competition for U23 teams.

He spent a week at Llandarcy Academy of Sport earlier this year, training with the senior team. At 1.93m tall and 110kg, he impressed with his athleticism and intelligence, his potential earning him a full contract at the Ospreys.

Dan Griffiths, Rugby General Manager at the Ospreys, said:

“Guido is a fantastic athlete, with size, pace and the ability to offload. He really impressed during his time with us, not only with his physical capabilities, but also his ability to adapt and learn quickly.

“Our age grade pathway and academy are bringing through some fantastic talent, but Guido will bring something different. We are excited to see how he will progress surrounded by quality players and coaching.

”There is a real excitement and desire within these young men to be a part of the Ospreys. We are looking forward to seeing how the blend of quality internationals and hungry young talent can create a vibrant, competitive environment.”

Volpi is one of seven new faces already confirmed for next season, following on from Wales backs George North, Scott Williams and Aled Davies, Namibian international wing Lesley Klim and props Tom Botha and Gheorghe Gajion, in addition to the 11 youngsters stepping up from the development programme to join the ‘B’ group next month.

“I am very happy to sign for the Ospreys” said Volpi.

“They are a big club and are always ambitious about their goals. It will be my first experience at that level, so I’m really looking forward to it and I hope to benefit from this and grow as a player.”