Southland outside back Rory van Vugt is back for the 2022 Bunnings NPC season.

Rory, 24, made his debut for Southland in 2018, being called into the Stags Squad out of South Otago.

Since 2018, Rory has played 25 games for the Stags, and has become a familiar face in the outside backs.

Rory previously played in Major League Rugby in the United States for Atlanta before coming back for last seasons NPC campaign, an experience that developed Rory’s game further.

Earlier this Super Rugby Season, Rory was called into the Highlanders Squad, however sustaining an injury in pre season seeing his time with in the Highlanders jersey this year short-lived.

For van Vugt, he is looking forward to the NPC season to come.

“Every time I put on the jersey is a special occasion” said Rory.

“If I had to narrow down a favourite memory to date it’s hard to look past Stag Day in 2020”.

For attack coach James Wilson, a player of Rory’s experience is key to the backlines makeup.

“He’s bringing professional experience recently playing in the MLR competition in America last season and preseason with Super franchise the Highlanders earlier this year, experience that not only helped Rory’s game as an Outside/Utility back, but will help others around him as a leader in our environment.”

“Unfortunately with Rory picking up an injury in his preseason game for the Highlanders, it cut short what would have been a great opportunity for him to further that experience gained.”

“We look forward to seeing Rory build on what is already a promising start to 2022.” Said Wilson.

Rory has made the move from ENC Barbarians to Woodlands for the 2022 Go Bus Senior Rugby Season, looking to defend the Galbraith Shield.

Article added: Thursday 28 April 2022