One of the most talked about young players in the country, Mat Protheroe, has signed a senior contract with Gloucester for next season.

Currently at Hartpury College, Protheroe has lit up the AASE league and U18 Premiership over the last two years since his move from Swansea, performances that have seen him also represent Hartpury RFC in the National League One, Gloucester in the Aviva A League, and England U18.

The race to sign Protheroe has been a competitive one, with several clubs in both England and Wales have been chasing him, with both nations likely to be keeping a keen eye on his progress over the next few years.

Slightly built, Proteroe is able to play at both fly half and full back and has made something of a trademark with his long mazy runs from deep inside his own half. Incredibly he arrived at Hartpury from 6^th form as a little known prospect but fast rose to become one of the most sought after young players in the country.

Speaking on securing his signing, Gloucester Director of Rugby, David Humphreys, said:

“We’re delighted that Mat has decided that Gloucester is the place for him to continue his rugby education and over the next few seasons, we look forward to helping him realise his potential as a rugby player in Cherry and White. He will continue to build his rugby experience playing and training alongside James Hook, Billy Twelvetrees, Jonny May and other quality international players.”

“His performances for both Hartpury College and Hartpury RFC were bound to attract interest from other teams, so it’s a huge boost for the club that he’s chosen to sign with Gloucester. Having watched him a number of times throughout the course of the season, his confidence with the ball in hand and his ability to beat defenders mark him out as an outstanding talent.”

“Mat is one of a number of excellent prospects who are coming through the Gloucester Academy, players who we believe have the ability to provide the backbone of the Gloucester team for many seasons to come.”

Speaking on Twitter, Protheroe said:

Really happy to have signed my first senior contract with @gloucesterrugby looking forward to the future!

It looks as though Gloucester are planning on giving youth a real chance next season too, with Humphreys saying:

“Joe Batley, Elliott Creed, Lloyd Evans, Lewis Ludlow, Dan Thomas, Ollie Thorley and Harry Wilson have all already represented Gloucester at different levels this year and, with many senior players away at the Rugby World Cup next season, they will play an important role in getting the new season off to a good start.”