Joe Joyce commits future to Bristol Rugby

The homegrown lock – who graduated through the Academy system – made his fiftieth first team appearance in Saturday’s victory over Rotherham Titans.

A proud Bristolian, Joyce represented Clifton RFC, St Mary’s, Southmead RFC and Dings Crusaders in the Bristol Combination.

“Joe [Joyce] personifies the unique Bristol spirit. He wears his heart on his sleeve, loves this club and representing the people of the city,” said Head Coach Pat Lam.

“What’s equally as important to us is that Joe is developing into a very good rugby player. He has made great improvements in his game since the start of the season and he’s establishing himself as an integral part of our forward pack.

“Joe has been part of the Bristol Rugby set-up since the age of 14. A key pillar of our vision is retaining homegrown players who give everything for the badge and we’re all excited to see Joe’s continued growth.”

The 23 year-old signed professional terms with the Academy in 2012, having graduated from SGS Filton.

Joyce said: “Playing for Bristol Rugby is a privilege and it’s a great honour for me every time I get selected. I’ve been at the club a long time and I really feel under Pat [Lam] and the coaching team that I’m starting to push on and fulfil my potential.

“I’m enjoying my rugby and the fantastic group of boys that we have here. It’s a really positive environment to be a part of and everybody can see the direction that the club wants to go.

“Bristol is my hometown club, it’s the team I supported on the terraces as a boy, so to have made fifty appearances and to now be part of probably the most exciting chapter in our history is a great feeling.”