Connacht Rugby and the IRFU have announced that Niyi Adeolokun has signed a new two year contract which will see him remain at the province until at least June 2017.
The 24-year-old signed for Connacht last summer after catching the eye of the provincial coaches whilst playing for Dublin University in division 1B of the AIL.
With Connacht, the flying winger has racked up a string of impressive performances, playing in all but two of Connacht’s games this season. He missed out in the last round against Zebre due to a high ankle sprain but is expected to be available to play again ahead of the Christmas period.
Hard work
Connacht Head Coach Pat Lam said “Niyi is an example of someone who was given an opportunity and took it with both hands.
“ From day one, he has impressed us all, players and coaches, with his work ethic and desire to succeed. He has put on nearly 10 kilos in weight and is the fastest member of our squad. But what is so great about Niyi is that he is an extremely hard-working individual. He has gone from an amateur to a full pro in a year and he fully deserves the recognition.
“Through his willingness to learn, I have no doubt that, here at Connacht, he will continue to develop his unquestionable talent and fulfil his potential.”
Delighted
Adeolokun added himself that he is “absolutely delighted. I’m constantly learning in this environment and I’ve enjoyed every minute of my time here since I arrived last summer.
“There are a lot of very young backs here at Connacht but from working with Pat and the coaching staff it’s clear that if you put in the work you will get your opportunity. It’s a really exciting time for everyone at Connacht and already, I can’t wait to try get back out there again and play my part.”
Born in Ibadan, Nigeria, Adeolokun came to Ireland with his family in 2001 and attended De La Salle College where he first started playing rugby. DUFC spotted the talent of young Adeolokun and brought him in to play for the AIL side in 2009 where he honed his rugby skills for four seasons. The young back was also very influential in the Dublin University Sevens team that won back-to-back All Ireland Championships in 2011 and 2012.
First of the season
Commenting on the first contract extension of the season, Connacht CEO Willie Ruane said;
“Niyi is a very talented young player who has earned his opportunity in the professional game. His success has come on the back of very hard work and determination in the club game and we’re delighted that he has committed his immediate future to Connacht.
“Making the step up this year from the AIL and playing in big games, he has shown that he has the appetite and ability to thrive in a professional environment.”
