Bristol Bears confirm duo of contract extensions for experienced Ashton Gate stars
Today at 05:33 AM
Harry Thacker and Kieran Marmion have signed new contract extensions with Bristol Bears.Thacker is one of Bears’ longest serving players, with over a century of apperances under his belt and the fan favourite has now committed his future to the club.
The 31-year-old has more tries for the club than any other forward – 60 in 127 appearances – since arriving at Bears from Leicester Tigers in 2018. Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: "Harry is a Bears centurion and remains a key influence on and off the field for us.
"His dynamic and attacking skillset perfectly suits the Bears Way of playing and his experience is key in a young and exciting squad. We're delighted that Harry has committed his future to the club."
Thacker said: "Firstly, I want to thank the fans – from the moment I joined this club you all have made me feel incredibly welcome. From where the club was seven years ago, fighting to stay up, to where it is now, competing against the best in the Champions Cup is something I take a lot of pride in.
"The exciting thing is, I feel this team has so much more left in it and can't wait to play my part in that. I'm proud to call Bristol home."
Scrum-half Marmion has also extended his stay at Ashton Gate, having been one of the club’s standout performers. The Ireland international, who joined from Connacht in the summer of 2023, has scored 19 tries in 47 appearances for the Bears, including eight in all competitions in 2024/25.
Lam said: "Marmo has been an outstanding addition to our group and a consistent performer for the Bears over the past two seasons.
"He is a true team man who continues to compete hard with Harry Randall for the number nine shirt.
"His skillset and game perfectly fit the Bears Way of playing and his has made a number of key match-winning contributions during his time here. I'm really pleased to continue working with him in the future."
Marmion said: "I'm really enjoying my time with the Bears and I'm delighted to have signed an extension here.
"The environment, facilities and ambition at this club continues to drive me to grow, develop and achieve for this club and I'm excited to see what the next few seasons holds for this group."
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