Magners League
Veteran trio commit to Connacht
ESPNscrum Staff
February 11, 2011
Connacht's Ray Ofisa off-loads to Frank Murphy, Northampton Saints v Connacht, European Challenge Cup, Franklin's Gardens, Northampton, England, April 11, 2009
Connacht's Ray Ofisa (centre) has been a tremendous servant to Connacht rugby © Getty Images
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Connacht have announced that veteran forwards Ray Ofisa, Adrian Flavin and Michael Swift have all signed new deals with the province.

Samoan flanker Ofisa, who joined the Westerners five years ago, has put pen to paper on a contract extension which will keep him at the Sportsground until the summer of 2012.

"I'm really pleased to extend my time here with Connacht," he said. "Galway has become a home away from home and the standard of rugby here is exceptional. To be involved with Connacht for another season allows me to keep testing myself at the highest level possible."

Flain, meanwhile, also arrived in Galway in 2006, from London Irish, and he, too, was only to pleased to sign on for another two seasons.

"Working under Eric (Elwood) and Dan (McFarland) is both challenging and rewarding and the squad are fantastic to train and play alongside so I'm very happy to commit to the province for the next 2 years," he said. "There's a real sense of belief in the squad and it's great to be a part of that and the stability of a two-year contract allows me to focus on training and being the best rugby player I can be."

Swift, finally, joined Connacht in 2000 and is now the province's all-time record caps holder, with 190 appearances in the green jersey to his name. Like Ofisa, he has also agreed a one-year extension to his existing deal.

"I have really felt at home here since my move eleven years ago. It is an honour to be Connacht's most capped player," he said. "The fans have been terrific during my time here and I hope I can repay their support and continue to serve Connacht as best I can."

Unsurprisingly, Connacht head coach Elwood is thrilled that three such experienced campaigners have decided to sign new deals with the province.

"Thave been great servants to Connacht Rugby and we are delighted they have shown their loyalty by extending their contracts," the former Ireland international said.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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