Sam Jeffries returns to Bristol's first-team squad

Bristol Bears have confirmed that Sam Jeffries is set to make a return to first-team squad after signing a playing contract ahead of the 2021/22 season.

A product of Bristol Academy, Jeffries was sidelined with a knee injury since 2019 following which he joined the club's backroom staff as Professional Development Manager. However, now he made a comeback and featured in a friendly game against Hartpury in May and has returned to Bristol's first-team training.

“The Professional Development role has been an incredible experience and I feel that I have grown as a person and in my understanding of the club vision and objectives," he said to the club's official website.

“To be back in the first team squad with an opportunity to compete for a starting berth is a dream come true. It has always been my long-term focus to return, and I worked hard to achieve it.

“I am so grateful to the medical team, players and staff for the way they have supported me throughout this period. I particularly want to thank Pat for believing in me and giving me this opportunity.

"The club vision and environment is truly incredible and I feel privileged to be a part of that.

“For me now, the focus is getting into a good pre-season and putting in the hard work so that I can start the new campaign fit and firing. I fully understand there are no favours – I have been given this chance and the impetus is on me to take it with both hands.”

Bristol Bears are currently positioned at the top of the Gallagher Premiership table with 16 wins from 21 games.