Bristol Bears centurion Piers O’Conor will depart the club at the end of the season to join Irish URC side Connacht.
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The versatile centre, who has made 137 appearances for the club over six seasons, joined the Bears from Ealing Trailfinders in 2018 and went on to help the club to its maiden European title and a top place finish in the Gallagher Premiership.
O’Conor, who is qualifies to play for Ireland, previously played for England U20 and featured for an England XV in 2019.
The 28-year-old has scored 36 tries for the Bears and departs as one the club’s most capped Premiership players of all time.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Piers has been a fantastic servant to this club, with more than 100 appearances and countless important performances during his six years with us. His journey from the Championship to being a Bears centurion shows how hard he has worked and developed.
“I have no doubt that his dedication and work ethic will soon make him a fan favourite in the West of Ireland and we wish him and his partner Hannah all the best for their next chapter with another great club in Connacht.”
O’Conor said: “I’ve absolutely loved my time with Bristol Bears and have made some friends for life here. From winning the Challenge Cup to finishing top of the Premiership, I’ll take some very fond memories with me into the next chapter of my career.
“I leave the Bears programme a better player and will always be proud of the contribution I’ve made.”
5 England rugby players now making it big in business after smart investments
If they’re lucky, professionals might enjoy careers lasting about 15 years in the sport – and taking up a job as a coach or media pundit after retirement isn’t for everyone.
No sector has been left unturned by players from across all levels of the game in their investments as they seek to set themselves up for life and regain focus after hanging up their boots.
Here’s some of the most prominent rugby players to have made waves in business.
Jack Nowell
The England and Exeter Chiefs winger is the co-owner of The Swordfish Inn back in his hometown of Cornwall.
Sitting on the harbourfront, the pub has been a favourite of local fishermen, artists and visitors alike for as long as anyone cares to remember and is well-known for its rugged charm and atmosphere.
He is also a director of MUSTARD Clothing.
