C.B.S. rugby star Ciaran Hearn lands deal with London Irish

Conception Bay South rugby star Ciaran Hearn has landed a contract with the London Irish rugby team in the U.K, shortly after playing on team Canada in the Rugby World Cup last month.

"It means a lot, it's not everyday you get to play against the best players in the world," said the 30-year-old from his training base in Victoria, B.C.

Hearn went on vacation in France after the World Cup, amid rumours that the club was impressed by his talent at the tournament.

"I've been around long enough to know talking is just talking, unless you have a written deal in front of your face, it means nothing," said Hearn.

But days within being back in Canada, that paperwork arrived, much to his surprise.

"It was kind of nice to see that they wanted me enough to get it rushed," he said.

Hearn grew up playing with the Newfoundland and Labrador Rugby Union, and was selected for the Own the Podium training program ahead of the 2016 Summer Olympics in Brazil.

An English welcome

In a statement, the head of rugby operations for the London Irish, Glenn Delaney, said Hearn was outstanding in the World Cup.

"His level of physicality and ability to distribute and contribute to an all-round game has been very impressive," said Delaney.

"It is a great opportunity for him to come and experience what it is like to play in probably the toughest domestic league in the world."

Hearn will be heading to England as soon as his visas are straightened out, and he can't wait for the challenge.

"It's huge," said Hearn. "I haven't cracked the lineup yet, so that's gonna be the next battle, is trying to crack the 23-man squad."

Hearn has a contract to play with the club, based southeast of London in Sunbury-on-Thames, until May.

"If they like you, I get a chance to re-sign in March."