The Pro12's most capped player, Michael Swift, is set to go on and on after signing a new one-year contract to remain with Connacht for a 15th season.
Swift, who is the province’s record caps holder, said he was delighted to commit his future to Pat Lam’s outfit for at least another season, saying he was going to play on as long as he was physically able.
The 36-year-old secondrow has shown no sign of losing his appetite for action, but has mainly featured as an impact replacement off the bench this season.
The veteran lock has been in fine form of late though and has even bagged two tries in his last six games, and he is thrilled to be in a position to give Connacht another season.
“It’s fantastic. I suppose I’m in the twilight of my career now, but I’m just happy to play another season and be involved. I think there is something special happening here at the moment so I just want to be part of it for as long as possible.
“Early in my career a lot of the games were a struggle, but now we can see where we are progressing as a squad and organisation. So it’s great to be part of it for another year anyway. I’m pretty excited about it,” said the 262-times capped lock.
Swift joined Connacht back in 2000 from Leeds Tykes and since then has racked up an impressive 180 league appearances as well as 75 outings for Connacht in Europe.
The former Richmond man went through the 100-cap barrier eight years ago, and became Connacht’s only double centurion in 2011.
Swift was named as one of Lam's captains for the season along with John Muldoon, Craig Clarke and Gavin Duffy, and was also handed the honorary role of club captain two years ago.
According to Lam, Swift’s is a crucial cog in the Connacht machine, and he’s thrilled to have him stay on.
“I think it’s the unseen stuff that Swifty does as well, you can’t underestimate the influence he has over the young guys.
“He’s played the most games, not only for Connacht but across the whole Celtic League and Michael Swift sits there (on top of the list).
“It’s a testament to his dedication and the way he looks after himself and the way he conducts himself. You’ve got to have the flesh there as well as the legend when he finally leaves,” said Lam.
