Ealing Trailfinders are thrilled to announce the signing of experienced Irish hooker Kevin O’Byrne ahead of the 2022/23 Championship season.

The 31-year-old moves to West London following a successful eight year career with Munster, earning 90 appearances and featuring in the PRO12/14, United Rugby Championship and European Champions Cup.

The Cork native joined Munster in 2013/14, before earning his senior debut against Gloucester at Kingsholm in August 2014. He went on to make his Pro12 debut against Edinburgh in the first match of the 2014 season, before playing a major part in Munster A’s British & Irish Cup title in 2016/17, charging through for a try in the final against Jersey Reds.

Kevin’s Champions Cup debut came against Racing 92 in October 2017, coming off the bench in the 61st minute as Munster battled their way to a gritty 14-7 win. In 2020/21 he was named in the PRO14 Dream Team, starting six of Munster’s 13 league matches and crossing for four tries.

Ahead of his move to Ealing Trailfinders, Kevin said: “I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to play for Ealing Trailfinders. The club has exceptional aspirations and a fantastic squad and energy, I am really looking forward to getting stuck in.”

Director of Rugby Ben Ward added: “Kevin’s playing record speaks for itself. He’s a highly experienced competitor who will make an immediate impact at our club, bolstering our front-row stocks and becoming a key figure in our determination to achieve further success.”

Ealing Trailfinders are delighted to announce the signing of former England U20s and Bath Rugby scrum-half Ollie Fox.

The 23-year-old is highly rated throughout English rugby and makes the switch to Trailfinders following an impressive Premiership stint at Bath. Ollie achieved 21 first-team appearances throughout his three seasons at The Rec, including 11 leagues matches and two Cup fixtures in 2021/22.

Born in Dewsbury, Ollie grew up playing rugby league before joining the Yorkshire Carnegie Academy at the age of 14. He went on to make his Championship debut in 2016/17, before representing England at the U20s Six Nations and World Rugby U20s Championship.

In preparation for his move to Ealing, Ollie said: “It’s a really exciting time to join Trailfinders. Having played a few times at Vallis Way, I know it’s a highly ambitious club with a great plan. I can’t wait to get the shirt on and give it everything every time I get the opportunity.”

Ben Ward, Ealing’s Director of Rugby, said: “Ollie is a very impressive young player who will add further Premiership experience to our squad. He’s an extremely talented and highly skilful competitor who possesses a slick passing game and neat field kicking. We’re looking forward to the impact he will make at our club.”