Zac Ward has signed a three-year contract with UIster, thanks to which the winger will remain at the club until 2028.
The 26-year-old joined Ulster on a trial basis after impressing for the Ireland Sevens at the Summer Olympics in Paris.
Ward, whose father Andy won the European Cup with UIster in 1999, made his debut for the provincial team in last week’s defeat to Bordeaux in the Champions Cup.
“After the Summer Olympics in Paris, I was ready for a change after the amazing experience with the Ireland Sevens program,” said Ward, who has retained his starting spot for Friday’s United Rugby Championship match against Munster.
“As a boy I always dreamed of playing for my home province as I grew up watching my dad play in an Ulster shirt.
“I’m also in touch with a few of the lads who were already in the team and the others have been fantastic in welcoming me to the set-up.
“With the help of the coaches, players and staff, I want to start playing for Ulster and hopefully make many good memories.”
Ulster chief executive Bryn Cunningham said: “We identified Zac as someone who could be a good addition to the senior team and have been impressed with how he has settled into the group.
“Watching his performances in the Sevens game, we felt he showcased a range of skills that could be utilized in the XV game, and his strengths in ball carrying, speed, aerial ability and goal-scoring ability are all strengths in the league’s backfield.
“He’s also a great example of someone who didn’t take the traditional route to the senior side, so credit goes to Zac and the journey he’s been on.”
