International tight-head forward Adam Jones has signed a new three year contract, which keeps him with the Ospreys until the end of the 2009/ 2010 season. Adam is 26 years old and has won forty one Wales caps to date. Jones welcomed the agreement of his new contract by saying: "Following the success of last season I was keen to stay on board with the Ospreys. I have been here since the region was formed and the progress in terms of facilities, organization and coaching is incredible. I am sure that this will pay dividends over the coming seasons and I look forward to being a part of the regions future."
The Ospreys have also agreed deals withWales international Hooker Richard Hibbard (a four year deal), while Shaun Connor has extended his contract for a further year.
"We have a great bunch of boys at the region and I am enjoying my time at the Ospreys," said Hibbard. "Hooker is possibly our most competitive position with Barry Williams, Huw Bennett and myself all competing for the number two shirt. This competition will make sure there is no complacency and drives us all to improve. In my time with the region I have learned such a lot from players such as Barry and there was no question of me going anywhere else."
Speaking in respect of his contract extension, Shaun Connor said: "I was delighted to hear that the Ospreys were keen to extend my contract for another year. I have enjoyed my time here and the coaches have been supportive of me in both the good and the bad times I have had through this time. I feel I am playing some of the best rugby I have ever played and I will look to take every opportunity that comes up."
Director of Rugby Kevin Hopkins is delighted to have three more playes committing their future to the Region. "To have secured these boys signatures for the foreseeable future is another step in the right direction for Ospreys rugby. The stars often get the majority of the plaudits and credits but players like Shaun Connor have a huge influence in our success and much of the great work they do often does not get the recognition it deserves. Adam and Richard have shown huge progress in their conditioning and technical play over the last few years and I am sure they both have long international futures ahead."
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