Pat Lam delighted to sign dual-threat Max Pepper

Former GB 7s ace Max Pepper has become the latest player to pledge his future away from Newcastle, with Bristol Bears confirming the versatile back has signed a contract with them ahead of next season.

The 23-year-old, who can play scrum-half or wing, was the BUCS Super Rugby Player of the Season for 2023/24 before joining Newcastle after graduating from Durham University.

Pepper made his Gallagher Premiership debut at Ashton Gate in April 2024 and was also called up to the Great Britain 7s squad for their Rugby Europe tournament in Croatia in June of 2024, having played for England Students the previous month against French Universities.

Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Max is a talented young player, comfortable at scrum half and on the wing, who certainly fits the way we like to play. With us continuing to run a smaller squad next season, it’s great to have a few players who are versatile to play in multiple positions.

“Like our captain Fitz Harding, he’s another player to progress through the BUCS Super Rugby pathway with Durham University and he is hungry to continue his learning and growth with the Bears from the start of next season. We look forward to welcoming him into our environment.”

Pepper said: “I’m really excited to be joining Bristol Bears - it’s a fantastic opportunity for me to join such an established Premiership club. I believe their brand of rugby will suit my skill set, whether I get opportunities playing at nine or on the wing.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Newcastle Falcons for the opportunity they provided me this season. Since leaving school with no contract, playing in New Zealand through COVID and the three years I spent at Durham University playing in BUCS Super Rugby, I have strived to be the best player I can be. I am looking forward to the next few years of my development with Bristol.”