Sam Lewis has signed his first regional contract with the Ospreys until the end of the 2012/13 season.
Young flanker impresses in Anglo-Welsh games
Sam Lewis has signed his first regional contract with the Ospreys until the end of the 2012/13 season.
The 21-year-old flanker has been handed the deal after impressing in the Principality Premiership with Swansea, before appearing for the Ospreys in the LV=Cup this season.
Lewis not only made the starting line-up for each cup game for the Ospreys but also kept his place in the XV for the last four RaboDirect PRO12 games in the absence of Welsh international Justin Tipuric.
Lewis said: "I'm really chuffed. I was playing for Swansea, just doing my thing for them really, and obviously I've done enough to be noticed by the Ospreys. It's a dream to play at this level and represent your home region and I just want to keep on doing it.
"I wasn't part of the age-grade system until I got a few games at U20 level so it shows that if you work hard and play well at Premiership level, the Ospreys are watching. Hopefully I can continue improving over the next 18 months now and do well for the Ospreys so I can stay here beyond that time."
Opportunity
Ospreys forwards coach Jonathan Humphreys said: "Sam has been nothing short of outstanding for us since he had his chance. In the last couple of games in particular, where he has stepped up to the PRO12, we've seen what a young talent he is.
"We had great reports of him from his performances with Swansea and we've kept an eye on him for the last year or so. His progress physically has been good, he's worked extremely hard and this is showing in the progress he's made, resulting in his contract offer.
"We've got a process in place that means late developers like Sam aren't lost forever, they have an opportunity to come through and represent the Ospreys. He's taken that opportunity, but he is well aware that this is only the beginning for him and he needs to keep on working hard, remain diligent and ensure he continues developing.
"If he does that, I'm sure he has a bright future with the Ospreys ahead of him."
