Emerging backrower Jack Dempsey has re-signed with the Waratahs for two seasons.
The flanker, who had a breakout Super Rugby season before injury curtailed his progress, is currently on Spring Tour as a development player with the Wallabies.
Dempsey overcame a shoulder injury in the back end of the year to be a standout for the NRC’s Sydney Rays and ultimately win a Spring Tour call up.
Waratahs coach Daryl Gibson said he was eagerly anticipating Dempsey’s future progress.
“Jack is amongst a number of new and exciting players that have stepped up this year and that I am sure fans will enjoy seeing continue to progress,” Gibson said.
Dempsey is used to back row competition, having learned off recently departed NSW club captain Dave Dennis and incumbent skipper Michal Hooper, but Gibson said the 22-year-old was ready to cement his position in the Waraths side.
“Next year he has an opportunity to cement a regular starting spot and fulfil his enormous potential," he said.
“Competition for back row spots will be fierce and will push Jack to greater heights.”
The Waratahs take on the Force in their opening 2017 match, at Allianz Stadium on February 25.
