Bristol Bears star Steven Luatua signs contract extension
Announcement comes ahead of 150th appearance for the club
Bristol star Steven Luatua has signed a new contract with the club ahead of his 150th appearance for the Bears this weekend.
The former All Black, who also represented Samoa at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, has appeared 149 times for the club over eight seasons.
He joined from Auckland Blues in summer 2017 and has also made 90 appearances as captain.
Club Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “I’m really pleased that Stevie has committed to extend his stay here in Bristol. Although the club has come on leaps and bounds since his arrival at a Championship side in 2017, he has a real determination and hunger to help the club to the next level and win more trophies.
“As we all know, he is a key influence on and off the field and his experience, leadership and world class ability will continue to be crucial to the development of our young squad.”
Luatua said: “I’m proud to represent this club and city, so it was an easy decision to sign an extension with the Bears for a ninth season.
“Bristol has become home for me and my family and I’m grateful to the community for making us feel so welcome here over the past eight years.
“On the field, I’m excited by the potential of our young and hungry squad and excited to see what we can accomplish this season and in the future.”