Transfer News: Three players sign new deals with Bristol Bears

Former All Black Luatua will remain with the club into a 10th campaign, continuing a spell that has seen him become one of the standout figures of Bristol’s professional era.

The 15-cap New Zealand international, who also represented Samoa at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, has made 160 appearances for the Bears since arriving from the Blues in 2017.

He has captained the side on 90 occasions and established himself as one of the Gallagher Prem's leading back row players.

Director of Rugby Pat Lam praised Luatua’s impact on and off the field.

“Stevie has been hugely important to everything we’ve built here at Bristol Bears over the past nine years, so we’re delighted he’s extending his stay with the club.

“He continues to lead through his actions every single day, whether that’s on the field, around the environment or helping develop our younger players. His professionalism, experience and competitive drive remain world class.

“Stevie cares deeply about this club, his teammates and our supporters, and he desperately wants to do everything he can to achieve the big goal he had coming to Bristol - to win the PREM before he leaves.”

Fly-half MacGinty has also agreed a new contract that will keep him at Ashton Gate until the end of the 2026/27 season.

The USA international joined Bristol from Sale Sharks in 2022 and has scored 369 points in 56 appearances for the club.

Across Premiership and European competition, he has passed 1,000 career points in the top flight.

Lam said: “AJ has been outstanding both on and off the field since joining the Bears, and we’re thrilled to have him remain with the club for another season.

“He’s faced a challenging period with injury this year, but his leadership, professionalism and commitment to the group have been exceptional throughout.

The influence he has on our younger players and the standards he sets every day are invaluable.

“AJ is a true professional with a genuine hunger to keep improving and competing, and we’re excited to continue working with him and seeing the impact he’ll have on the group moving forward.”

Academy hooker Gwilliam has also signed a new deal after progressing through Bristol’s pathway system into the senior squad.

The 23-year-old has made 15 first-team appearances since signing professional terms in 2021 and has scored four tries.

Lam said: “Gwill is another really positive example of the talent coming through our Academy system.

“He’s developed hugely over the past few years, not just physically and technically, but also in his understanding of the game and what it takes to perform consistently at this level.

“What stands out most with Gwill is his attitude. He’s eager to learn, he works hard every day and he’s constantly looking for ways to improve his game.

"While he has great role models and mentors in Harry Thacker and Gabs Oghre, I know he will want to push them both hard next season.

“We’re excited about his future and look forward to seeing him continue to grow with the Bears.”