Theo Vukasinovic Signs New Deal

Wasps have announced that lock Theo Vukasinovic has extended his contract with the Club.  

The 25-year-old joined Wasps from London Scottish ahead of the 2019/20 season. Vukasinovic previously spent time with Loughborough Students, having come through the London Irish Academy.  

Vukasinovic has made 11 Wasps appearances to date and regularly featured in February and March last season.  

That run of games included impressive performances in the away wins against Worcester Warriors and Newcastle Falcons. Unfortunately, just as Vukasinovic was showcasing his talent, he then picked up a season-ending Achilles injury against Sale Sharks.  

As part of the new deal, the 6ft 5in second row will spend some time out on loan at RFU Championship side Ampthill Rugby.  

Wasps Senior Academy Prop Zac Nearchou will join Vukasinovic on loan at the Bedfordshire side this season.  

England Under 19 Prop Nearchou is a Wasps Under 18 graduate and joined Wasps’ Senior Academy ahead of the 2019/20 season. The 20-year-old joined the Club from Radley College and spent time on loan at Benetton Rugby last season.  

Wasps sent Will Porter, Cameron Anderson and Alex Pleasants out on loan to Ampthill last season for some valuable game time.  

Wasps Rugby Men’s Head Coach Lee Blackett said: “Firstly, I would like to thank Ampthill for their continued support in the development of our players.  

“It is great news that Theo has agreed a new contract with us. He has already shown his potential during his two years at the Club so far and we are looking forward to continuing his development at Wasps in the coming years.  

“Theo was very unfortunate to pick up an Achilles injury back in March, when he was starting to get a run of games in the team. His recovery is coming along nicely, and we are looking forward to seeing him back out there in match action.”  

Vukasinovic added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Wasps so far. I would like to thank the coaches for the faith they have shown in me.  

“I would like to give particular thanks to the medical department for all the hard work they have been putting in with me to help me return from my injury.  

“I am really looking forward to getting back out in front of our wonderful fans at the Coventry Building Society Arena.”  

Head of Academy and Recruitment Kevin Harman said: “Zac has done really well since he came in full-time. We believe that going on loan to the Championship is the next step in continuing his progression, as the Championship is a fantastic breeding ground for developing players.”  

Nearchou added: “I’m really excited to join Ampthill this season. I was able to join them for a few sessions last season and both the staff and players were very welcoming.  

“Since then, I’ve been buzzing to get involved, develop as a player and hopefully get some wins with them. I’d also like to thank both Ampthill and Kevin for this great opportunity. I can’t wait to get started.”