Hougaard signs permanent deal with Worcester
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Hougaard signs permanent deal with Worcester
In a statement released today, Worcester Warriors confirmed the permanent signing of Springbok scrum-half Francois Hougaard for the 2016/2017 season.
Hougaard joined Warriors for four appearances following a spell with the South Africa Sevens side and will return to the Sevens circuit for this summer's Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The number nine has previously picked up two Super Rugby titles with the Bulls in 2009 and 2010 and has impressed the Worcester side in his short time with the team, earning man-of-the-match in a crucial victory over Newcastle Falcons earlier this month.
Director of Rugby Ryan said: "Francois has come in and had a huge influence on the side in such a short space of time.
"You can see the difference he has made to the squad and that comes from a wealth of experience from his time in Super Rugby and playing internationally.
"We're delighted he's decided to be a part of our journey and we hope he can be a catalyst for us moving forward."
Hougaard, capped 35 times for South Africa, said: "I haven't been here long but I've become really fond of Worcester.
"There are incredible facilities and the Club have great ambitions which is something I'm really excited about being a part of.
"There are a great bunch of players here and they've made the transition very smooth since coming from South Africa Sevens.
"Now my aim is to help drive Warriors up the Aviva Premiership table and to achieve our long-term goal of becoming a top European side."
Hougaard joined Warriors for four appearances following a spell with the South Africa Sevens side and will return to the Sevens circuit for this summer's Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The number nine has previously picked up two Super Rugby titles with the Bulls in 2009 and 2010 and has impressed the Worcester side in his short time with the team, earning man-of-the-match in a crucial victory over Newcastle Falcons earlier this month.
Director of Rugby Ryan said: "Francois has come in and had a huge influence on the side in such a short space of time.
"You can see the difference he has made to the squad and that comes from a wealth of experience from his time in Super Rugby and playing internationally.
"We're delighted he's decided to be a part of our journey and we hope he can be a catalyst for us moving forward."
Hougaard, capped 35 times for South Africa, said: "I haven't been here long but I've become really fond of Worcester.
"There are incredible facilities and the Club have great ambitions which is something I'm really excited about being a part of.
"There are a great bunch of players here and they've made the transition very smooth since coming from South Africa Sevens.
"Now my aim is to help drive Warriors up the Aviva Premiership table and to achieve our long-term goal of becoming a top European side."
