Rising Rebels star Jack Maddocks has inked a deal keeping him in Melbourne until 2020.
Maddocks was signed with the Rebels after an outstanding U20s season in 2016, and has gone from strength-to-strength since making his Super Rugby debut in 2017, joining the Wallabies as a development player on last year's Spring Tour.
The fullback opted to stay in Melbourne, keen to be a part of the next stage of development under coach Dave Wessels.
“I’m really happy to be staying at the Rebels. The development of the rugby program and the environment that we’re creating under Dave made it a really easy decision in the end,” he said.
“We are definitely on the right track to building a long-term, successful club and I can’t wait to be a part of it.
“The Wallabies are an ambition of mine, but I know that can only happen if I play good rugby for the Rebels, so I’m looking forward to putting my head down and working hard.”
Wessels said Maddocks's retention was a major coup for the club.
“We’re delighted that Jack has chosen to commit his future to our club and wants to continue his development in the environment we are building in Melbourne,” he said.
“Jack is a quality person and has played well this year – a real testament to the work he’s put in. He’s highly-regarded within our club and by his teammates because of the way he plays the game; with a lot of love and care for the team.
“We are striving to build a world-class environment in Melbourne to be able to support players like Jack to fulfil their dreams of playing Test rugby.”
Maddocks has played mainly fullback this season, with Dane Haylett-Petty struggling with injury, but will be on the wing on Friday night when they take on the Sunwolves.
The Rebels host the Sunwolves at AAMI Park on Friday night, kicking off at 7:45pm AEST, LIVE on FOX SPORTS and via RUGBY.com.au RADIO. Buy tickets here.
