Club legend the latest to depart as Bristol Bears confirm SIX first team departures
30/04/2024 08:12
Bristol Bears boss Pat Lam has so far announced six players will be departing the club at the end of the 2023/24 Premiership season.
The list includes record-breaking youngsters, England internationals and a club legend who has played more than 100 times for the club.
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The club have moved to add to their squad already with powerhouse prop Lovejoy Chawatama and Viliame Mata set to arrive at the club this summer
Check out the five players set to depart below.
#1. Piers O’Conor
The versatile centre, who has made 137 appearances for the club over six seasons, joined the Bears from Ealing Trailfinders in 2018 and went on to help the club to its maiden European title and a top place finish in the Gallagher Premiership.
The 28-year-old has scored 36 tries for the Bears and departs as one the club's most capped Premiership players of all time.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: "Piers has been a fantastic servant to this club, with more than 100 appearances and countless important performances during his six years with us. His journey from the Championship to being a Bears centurion shows how hard he has worked and developed.
I have no doubt that his dedication and work ethic will soon make him a fan favourite in the West of Ireland and we wish him and his partner Hannah all the best for their next chapter with another great club in Connacht."
O'Conor said: "I've absolutely loved my time with Bristol Bears and have made some friends for life here. From winning the Challenge Cup to finishing top of the Premiership, I'll take some very fond memories with me into the next chapter of my career.
"I leave the Bears programme a better player and will always be proud of the contribution I've made."
#2. Magnus Bradbury
Following two season at Ashton Gate, he will depart Bristol Bears at the conclusion of the season to return home to Scottish URC side Edinburgh, the club can confirm.
The Scotland international number eight has made 42 appearances for the club during his two seasons in the West Country and will make the switch to his hometown club ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: "Magnus has made a massive contribution on and off the field during his two seasons here, which includes winning the prestigious Players' Player of the Year award last season. He has also been an excellent team man on and off the field and he can be very proud of his impact at the Bears.
"Magnus maintains a desire to represent his country and his return to Scotland will certainly help him to achieve his ambitions. We wish him and Eve all the very best with the move and for the future. I know along with the rest of the squad Maggie is determined to make this season a big success before he leaves."
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