Passion for Ireland leads Boss to sign with Ulster

Waikato halfback Isaac Boss will join Irish rugby club Ulster at the end of this year.

Boss, who was drafted into the Hurricanes squad for this year's Super 12 after playing for the Chiefs last year, will appear for Waikatoin this year's NPC before his departure.

Boss, 24, said he would miss his family and playing rugby in New Zealand.

"In particular, I will miss my mates at the Hurricanes, the Chiefs, Waikato and especially my team-mates at the Southern United club in Tokoroa," Boss said.

"However, as a professional rugby player I look forward to the chance of playing in a different environment and adding to my rugby experience."

New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRFU) deputy chief executive Steve Tew said it was disappointing to lose a player of Boss' calibre.

"However, we appreciate that players have a choice about where they wish to play their rugby and Isaac has decided to gain some experience overseas," Tew said.

After discussions with Boss and having reached a commercial agreement with the Irish club, the NZRFU and the Waikato Rugby Union have agreed to release him from his contract at the end of September.

"I appreciate the NZRFU's and Waikato's consideration and approach to my decision and our discussions about my desire to continue my professional career in Ireland," Boss said.

"I have a passionate interest in my Irish heritage and I am very excited about the prospect of living in Ireland and playing for Ulster.

"At the moment, however, I am looking forward to the Super 12 season with the Hurricanes and then the NPC with Waikato.

"My focus now is with the Hurricanes and I just want to get on and play some rugby."

Waikato Rugby Union chief executive Gary Dawson said Boss' departure would leave a void in the Waikato side. 
 
- NZPA