Brumbies sign Australian U20 superstar

The Brumbies have today announced the signing of Lachlan Lonergan, who was a key player in Australia's run to the U20 World Championship final earlier this year.

Lonergan packed down at hooker in four of the five games played by the Junior Wallabies, including both knockout matches. The talent 19-year-old also dotted down four times during the competition, making him Australia's top try-scorer.

Lonergan has signed a two-year contract with the Brumbies and will join his older brother Ryan in the senior squad for the 2020-2021 Super Rugby seasons.

The Tuggeranong Viking product has progressed through the Brumbies' ACT Junior Representative grades and Academy structure and will join fellow junior internationals Noah Lolesio and Nick Frost in the squad for 2020.

“I’m really excited about signing a contract with the Brumbies and getting an opportunity to further my career at my home town club,” Lonergan said.

“The Brumbies have always been an important part of my life and, having progressed through the Academy with them, it’s a dream come true to wear the jersey.

“I know I still have lots to learn and am looking forward to continuing to work hard with Dan and the coaching staff to further my development and grow as a player.”

Brumbies coach Dan McKellar has been especially impressed with the hooker's progress over the last 12 months.

“Lachie has been in the pathway system for a number of years now and has earned a full-time contract off some excellent performances for the Australian U20 side where he was one of their best,” McKellar said.

“Like any young hooker his set-piece and physical development are areas we will work hard on with Locky. But he is a very good young hooker with a point of difference.

“He’s a good young local product who has an exciting future ahead of him.

“We have seen over the last couple of years that a number of players have come through the Brumbies Academy and Lachie is another positive story.”

The promotion of Lonergan continues the Brumbies tradition of growing their own players with several of the 2020 Super Rugby squad having been graduates of the club’s Academy system.