Stevenson Released Early From Ulster Contract

Second row Lewis Stevenson has been released from his contract with Ulster Rugby by mutual agreement and he will join Exeter Chiefs with immediate effect.

Lewis Stevenson was under contract until the end of the season, but having started just four games during this campaign, an early release was agreed to allow him to explore other options.

The 31-year-old lock had a spell with Exeter during the 2008/09 season, before a two-year spell with Harlequins and then a move back to Belfast in 2011 to join Ulster.

Stevenson, educated at Ballyclare High School, made 89 appearances for his home province, scoring one try which came against Benetton Treviso at Kingspan Stadium earlier this season.

Commenting on his departure, Stevenson said: “I am extremely proud to have played a part in this Ulster team over the last five seasons. Every time I pulled on the shirt it meant something to me.

“However, the time is right for me to face a new challenge and I am excited about being part of Exeter Chiefs again. I appreciate how Ulster has handled this and I wish them every success for the rest of the season.”

Ulster’s operations director Bryn Cunningham was quick to praise Stevenson’s efforts for the province.

“We wish Lewis all the very best as he embarks on a new challenge with Exeter, a club that he is very familiar with,” said Cunningham.

“Having been a big part of the Ulster squad, Lewis will be missed both on and off the pitch by many of the guys who have donned the white jersey with him. There was a great send-off for him in the changing room after the Oyonnax game at the weekend!

“Player welfare is crucial for the province and in dealing closely with his agent and Lewis himself, we believe that this outcome will give him the best chance of furthering his rugby career.

“It also gives an opportunity during the remainder of the current season for Academy players like John Donnan and Alex Thompson, who have been working with Pete Browne in the ‘A’ set-up, to move up the pecking order, therefore getting exposure at a higher level, as we continue to develop our young, home-grown indigenous players.

“With the addition of the very promising and exciting Kieran Treadwell coming in next season, plus the current impressive displays and continued improvement of Alan O’Connor, this again bolsters our resources of planning for the future in the second row department.”