Rugby: Ulster Rugby has announced that backrow forward Chris Henry has signed a two year contract extension keeping him at the club until at least June 2014.

The once-capped Ireland international joined Ulster on a development contract in 2006 before signing his first professional contract with the Province in 2007/08.

Henry made 29 appearances for Ulster last season, more than any other player with the exception of Pedrie Wannenburg who played the same number of games.

Henry’s role as a key member of the team which reached the Magners League play off and the Heineken Cup quarter finals was recognised with a nomination for ‘Player of the Year’ at the Ulster Rugby Awards last May.

This season, in the absence of Rory Best and Johann Muller who were on World Cup duty for Ireland and South Africa, Henry was given the Ulster captaincy.

“I’m delighted to have signed the extension. It’s something you have to think about hard but as far as I’m concerned I’ve had an absolute blast in my last couple of seasons at Ulster and this is where I want to be,” said Henry.

“I’ve dealt with Brian for a long time now since we worked together at Ulster Schools’ and I’ve built up a good relationship with him and the rest of the coaching staff as well. I’m very comfortable being here and I get on really well with everybody. It’s a really tightly knit group of players and coaches, and it’s a great working environment. I’m very excited to have got the contract signed and it allows me to concentrate solely on rugby for the next three years.