Ospreys import: Chauncey O'Toole
The Ospreys have signed Canadian flanker Chauncey O'Toole on a one-season contract starting after the World Cup.
25-year old O'Toole, capped 11 times by the Canucks, has put pen to paper on a contract that runs until the end of the season, with an option to extend.
An openside flanker who can also play at blindside or number eight, O'Toole stood out at this year's Churchill Cup, where he was named Man of the Series.
He has previous experience of life in Wales, after spending time as part of the RGC 1404 set-up in 2010, an experience that also led to him enjoying a short spell with Glasgow during the same year.
Capped 11 times since making his debut in a 25-6 defeat to Ireland in Vancouver just over two years ago, O'Toole has scored three tries for his country and has also represented Canada in the IRB Sevens World Series. Currently involved in Canada's preparations for the Rugby World Cup.
"Chauncey is a player who has developed a reputation as an exciting player capable of competing against world class players and we are delighted to be able to add him to our squad for the coming season, especially given the interest in him from teams in both the Aviva Premiership and the PRO12," said Ospreys CEO Andrew Hore.
"To be able to secure Chauncey's services is a real boost for us ahead of the new season," added Director of Coaching Scott Johnson.
"As an openside, he will provide real competition for Justin Tipuric and his flexibility and ability to play right across the back row provides another option. The sheer number of games in the season and the type of game we intend utilising means that it's going to be important to keep our loose forwards fresh so Chauncey will get plenty of game time.
"We've placed a real importance on the character of the individual in our recruitment this summer, and Chauncey is no different. Having spent time with him in Canada recently and got to know him, I can see that he will bring to the region the right desire, commitment and grit that we want our players to have as we move forward on and off the field."
Comments
DBRowan says...
O'Toole is a real class act. Even as praise was heaped on him during the Churchill Cup he stayed grounded and humble. When England beat Canada in the final he was a Canadian who really stood out as being hit hard by the defeat, looking utterly crushed even as he was named player of the tournament. Best of luck with the Ospreys and I hope this is the start of a brilliant career for the man!
Posted 07:21 08th August 2011
Kawasakifreak says...
O'Tooleplayed well in the last Churchill Cup & Sevens games so he should be a good signing/
The Ospreys will give him structure & intensity to his training & playimg that can only benefit him & Canada in the future.
Posted 21:00 07th August 2011
payve says...
jealous, wish he was coming to wasps
Posted 20:54 07th August 2011
5Lock4ward says...
I'm always glad to see Canadians and Americans getting pro-contracts. Hopefully he's allowed to participate in all Canadian national team training and test matches. The faster the 2nd tier nations catch up the better and more exciting all of world rugby becomes.
Posted 16:28 07th August 2011
stumpy says...
this guy was awsome in the churchill cup. His work rate is as high as any world flanker, tremendous signing. Now ospreys just need people in the stadium!
Posted 13:49 07th August 2011
leinster_goy says...
"chauncey o'toole" good god, his parents must have loved him
Posted 12:15 07th August 2011