Bolger rewarded with new deal

Harlequins youngster Ben Bolger has signed a new two-year deal with the club.

The 21-year-old grew up in Chingford, Essex and played rugby union up to the age of 16 before switching to league with St Albans. “Being a London boy all I ever wanted to do is be a professional rugby player with a London club,” he said. “Last season was a big one for me and I hope to build on that next year.

“I really appreciated the opportunity I was given and hopefully showed people just a fraction of what I can do. Although we underachieved as a team last season it didn’t put a downer on things for me. I was probably a bit of a slow starter but by the end I felt part of the squad.”

Ben began life as a stand off but has adapted to life in the back row. “It was a big step up for me. There’s less responsibility but more hard graft and you still get opportunities to run with the ball. I’m still learning but the more experience I get, the more I’ll improve.”

Bolger made his debut against Wakefield in January and went on to make 14 Super League appearances in 2010.

Acting head coach Rob Powell said: “Ben will be looking for a big pre season to help him realise the potential he showed when called into the first team this year.”

Ben, who combines his rugby with studying for a degree in business management, is the elder brother of Sam, a highly promising stand off for the Quins’ Under-20s.