English extends Rebels stay

Melbourne Rebels Club Captain Tom English has put pen to paper and re-committed extend his contract for at least one more season.

 
After arriving at the Rebels in 2012 on an Extended Playing Squad contract, English has been a mainstay in the Rebels starting XV since his debut in 2013 and is now the 2^nd highest Super Rugby capped Rebel in history.

 
His popularity, authenticity and respect in the Club was highlighted by his elevation to Club Captain in 2017.
 
“I learnt some time ago that a Club isn't defined by the four walls surrounding it. What defines a great Club, like ours, is the people within these four walls,” noted English.
 
“This year the personnel we have on and off the field are exceptional and we are all working towards something special.’
 
“Being here for as long as I have and having experienced mixed levels of success in that time, I can honestly sense we have really elevated our expectations. We’re challenging ourselves more than ever and we’re exceptionally committed to doing our members proud.

 
With the 2019 Melbourne Rebels squad close to being finalised, English has been buoyed by the quality of players who have decided to join the Club.    
 
“We have made some really exciting signings. Retaining guys like Marika and Angus Cottrell plus new recruits like Matt Toomua and Isi Naisarani will only strengthen our squad even further,” said English.
 
Melbourne Rebels CEO Baden Stephenson was quick to commend the 27-year-old Club stalwart for his loyalty and leadership.
 
“I’ve been privileged to witness first hand Tom’s development as a player and growth as a person during his time at the Rebels,” said Stephenson.
 
“Tom is a leader who brings terrific energy to the Club and has been such a positive influence for the entire playing group, particularly the younger players.’
 
 “The level of care he demonstrates for the organisation and our people makes him the perfect role model for our Club. His selflessness is why he is such an effective Club Captain and ambassador for Rugby,” stated Stephenson.
 
On the field, English has cemented himself as a regular fixture in the starting backline in the face of stiff competition.
 
“Amassing 80 Super Rugby caps is no easy feat and Tom has done that whilst leading a young group through adversity. It’s a testament to his work ethic that Tom is able to be such a consistent performer for the Rebels.’
 
“His recommitment to Melbourne reaffirms the stability that our coaching staff and high performance environment offers quality Rugby players,” stated Stephenson.