Connon Joins Senior Academy
Newcastle Falcons are pleased to announce that Ireland Under 19s Fly Half and Austin Friars School student Brett Connon has signed for the club’s Senior Academy next season.
Connon, 18, is already a member of the club’s junior academy system but will be making the step up to a full time contract with the Falcons this summer.
Having played his junior rugby at school and with Carlisle RFC, Connon began making the trip across to Newcastle for training at the age of 16.
“I’ve always supported the Falcons and from a young age I would come to watch them play. I grew up watching people like Jonny Wilkinson play so it was great to be offered the chance to join first the junior academy and now the Senior Academy too.
“The Falcons have produced some great 10s over the years so to get the chance to learn my game there is great. The number of international players that have come out the club’s academy over the years says a lot about the quality of the coaching and I’m really proud to become part of the Senior Academy next season.
Brett, whose older brothers Grant and Max both play for National League One side Darlington Mowden Park, has already represented the Falcons at both Under 18s and A League Level while also appearing on a dual registration basis this season for Tynedale.
“I’ve been lucky enough to play a part in some of the A League games, which has been great. It was pretty surreal at first because you’re playing with international players and players you’ve looked up to. It’s not something I expected this soon but it’s nice to be trusted with game time and when you’re offered that opportunity you have to take it.
“Next year I’ll hopefully be involved with some A League fixtures and I’ll take whatever chances I can get with the Falcons throughout the season. I’m hoping to be able to get plenty of game time for my dual registered club as well which is Tynedale at the minute.”
Speaking of the signing, Academy Manager Mark Laycock said: “Brett is a very talented footballer and a good goal kicker. He’s done really well this year to be studying towards his A Levels while continuing to play week in week out at National League One level with Tynedale and that’s a testament to his dedication to the game.
“Brett came to us through the Cumbrian county system, following in the footsteps of players like Mark Wilson, and is another example of the type of rugby talent that can be found to the Western side of our catchment area.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming him into the Senior Academy this summer although at the moment he’s away with Ireland Under 19s and we all wish him well with that. “
