Mackenzie Martin has capped a memorable week by signing a new long-term contract with Cardiff Rugby.
The 20-year-old burst onto the scene this season, making his first team debut from the bench in a dramatic 31-24 victory over DHL Stormers in November.
Such has been the impact the number eight has made in his six appearances since, that he was named in Wales’ squad for the Guinness Six Nations earlier this week.
And the Ely has now penned a deal to remain at his beloved Arms Park as Matt Sherratt continues to secure the services of the club’s young guns.
Sherratt said: “As I keep saying, retaining our young talent at the club is essential as we rebuild. Mackenzie has raw ingredients that you simply cannot coach in terms of his size, physicality and explosive power.
“He has made a big impact in a short amount of time but what has impressed me most is the way he has conducted himself within the environment. He is taking everything in and working hard with the likes of Taulupe Faletau, Ellis Jenkins and Thomas Young to full understand what it takes to be a professional both on and off the pitch.”
Martin, who has come through the club’s pathway, is a product of Caerau Ely and Glamorgan Warriors.
He has spent the past two seasons with Cardiff RFC and enjoyed two campaigns with Wales Under-20s.
The proud Cardiffian was thrilled to extend his time at the Arms Park and is now relishing the opportunity to take his game to the next level.
Martin said: “I’m ecstatic to sign my first professional contract with my home town club. It’s just is amazing and a great honour to put on the jersey.
“I’m really happy and proud of the way the season has gone so far. From a personal perspective it’s been massive for me to get a run of games and I can only thank the coaches for believing in me and giving me the opportunity.
“From a collective point of view, we are also really growing as a group, playing a good brand of rugby and working hard for each other.
“The club means everything to me really, I’ve been here since I was 16 and every opportunity I’ve had is because of the coaches here backing me. I’ve learned a lot in four-five years of being here both as a person and as a rugby player. I couldn’t be more grateful to the club.
“I’m also grateful to God for blessing me with these opportunities, my family and friends for supporting me through the highs and lows, and Matt Sherratt and the backroom staff for putting their faith in me and giving me a fresh page at the start of the season.”