Thompson agrees first professional contract

Glasgow Warriors have secured the signature of one of Scotland’s most promising prospects at fly-half, with Ross Thompson putting pen to paper on his first professional contract with the club.

The 21-year-old
graduates from the FOSROC Scottish Rugby Academy, having made an immediate
impression on the Warrior Nation in his first two appearances for the club.

After coming
off the bench at BT Murrayfield to make his club debut against Edinburgh,
Thompson was at the heart of Glasgow’s thrilling 23-22 victory over their
cross-country rivals on his first start in a Warriors jersey; the number 10
kicked 13 points and turned in a performance that belied his years to earn the
Player of the Match award from the Premier Sports punditry team.

Prior to
breaking into Danny Wilson’s squad, Thompson was amongst the standout
performers for the Ayrshire Bulls in the inaugural FOSROC Super6, scoring 61
points for the Millbrae side in 2019/20.

The former
Glasgow Hawk has also represented Scotland U20 with distinction, representing
his country at the 2018 World Rugby U20 Championship before serving as
vice-captain for the 2019 edition of the tournament.

The 319^th
player to represent the Warriors, Thompson’s grandfather represented Scotland
at cricket whilst his uncle was capped for Scotland in rugby league, whilst
cousin Kirsty Gilmour is a two-time Commonwealth Games medallist in badminton.

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— Glasgow Warriors (@GlasgowWarriors) January 16, 2021

“I’m really
excited be signing my first professional contract,” the fly-half told glasgowwarriors.org.

“My time in
the academy has made me realise just how much I want to play for Glasgow and
it’s something I’ve chased for the last few years. It was a no brainer for me
when the offer came through.

“I’m excited
to keep working hard and learning from the coaches and the players at the club.
My main focus for me is to continue trying to develop my game and Warriors is
just the place to do that.

“I’m chuffed
to bits to sign for a club that I’ve really enjoyed being a part of. I’m
looking forward to competing for the jersey and hopefully running out in front
of a home crowd at Scotstoun soon.”

Glasgow
Warriors Head Coach Danny Wilson added: “We’re thrilled that Ross has committed
to the club.

“He’s worked
hard this season to improve his game and earn a spot in the match day 23.

“Ross is a
promising young talent. He played well on debut against Edinburgh and we’re
looking forward to seeing him continue to grow in our environment.

“Having the
opportunity to learn from the likes of Ian [Keatley], Adam [Hastings], and –
from next season – Duncan [Weir] will be fantastic for his development.”