Ballina RFC player among this season's Connacht Rugby Academy

Connacht Rugby has announced that so far a 13-player squad has been assembled in this season’s Connacht Academy.

There are six Year 1 additions, including Under 20 Six Nations winner Matthew Devine and his brother John, both of whom came through the ranks at Garbally College and Ballinasloe RFC.

Also included is Ballina RFC's Harry West and a trio of Ireland Under 20 Six Nations winners - Daniel Hawkshaw (brother of new Pro arrival David Hawkshaw), Oisin Michel and Leitrim native Shane Mallon.

Moving up to Year 2 are Sligo’s Hubert Gilvarry, Buccaneers RFC duo Will Reilly and Josh O’Connor, and prop Bart Vermeulen.

Completing the squad so far are Year 3 players Eoin de Buitlear from An Cheathrú Rua, Sligo native Donnacha Byrne, and prop Charlie Ward.

Further players may be added as the season progresses.

Year 1

Matthew Devine – Scrum-Half

John Devine – Centre

Daniel Hawkshaw – Centre

Shane Mallon – Centre

Oisin Michel – Prop

Harry West – Out-Half

Year 2

Hubert Gilvarry – Scrum-Half

Josh O’Connor – Back Three

Will Reilly – Scrum-Half

Bart Vermeulen – Prop

Year 3

Eoin de Buitlear – Hooker

Donnacha Byrne – Back Row

Charlie Ward – Prop