Ryan Burke signs first professional contract with Glasgow Warriors

Burke becomes the ninth and final Senior Academy graduate to make the step up to the professional squad this year, marking a record-breaking intake for the club.

The second-rower joins fellow academy graduates Mackenzie Duncan, Kerr Johnston, Jack Oliver, Seb Stephen, Matt Urwin, Johnny Ventisei, Fergus Watson and Kerr Yule in securing professional deals, the highest number of academy promotions in a single year in Glasgow Warriors history.

A product of the club’s thriving development pathway, Burke broke into the Glasgow Warriors team squad towards the end of the 2025/26 campaign, making his debut against Fidelity SecureDrive Lions in Johannesburg before earning his first start away to the DHL Stormers in Cape Town the following week.

The lock has also impressed on the international stage, representing Scotland U20 at both the 2024 U20 Six Nations and the 2024 World Rugby U20 Championship.

The 21-year-old continued his development throughout the 2024/25 campaign with Glasgow Warriors A, producing a series of standout performances, including crossing the whitewash in a victory over Benetton U23.

Speaking after signing his first professional contract, Burke said: “It’s a really proud moment for me and my family to sign my first professional contract with Glasgow Warriors.

“It’s something I’ve been working towards for a long time and to now have the opportunity to continue my development with this group is hugely exciting.”

“Getting the chance to make my debut in Johannesburg and then start against the Stormers in Cape Town were incredible experiences and they’ve only made me more determined to keep improving.”

“I’ve learned so much from the coaches and the players around me already, and I’m looking forward to continuing to challenge myself and contributing to the team however I can over the coming seasons.”

Glasgow Warriors Head Coach Franco Smith welcomed Burke’s progression into the professional environment: “Ryan has shown excellent growth throughout his time in our academy and has earned this opportunity through his hard work and dedication.”

“He took his opportunity well during our tour to South Africa and we are excited to see him continue his development within our environment.”

“We are committed to developing homegrown talent and to see nine academy players progress into the professional squad this year is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved in our pathway.”