Ulster Rugby has paid tribute to five players who are set to leave the Kingspan this summer.
The quintet has a combined total of over 250 caps for the province.
Included in the imminent departures are Jack McGrath, Sean Reidy, Ross Kane, David O'Connor and Mick Kearney.
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Head Coach, Dan McFarland, said: “Thank-you to Jack, Sean, Ross, Dave, and Mick for all that they have given to the Ulster jersey over the years.
“They can all leave proud in the knowledge that they have each made a significant contribution to our province, and the journey we are on as a squad – and I wish them the very best for the future on behalf of all the players and staff at the club.”
Prop McGrath joined Ulster in 2019 and went on to make 24 appearances, but his game time was limited due to injury.
“A big thanks goes to Ulster Rugby and the coaches during my time in Belfast. My team-mates became close friends and I will always value those friendships," he said.
“I will miss the incredible support of the Ulster fans, it’s a great feeling running out at Kingspan Stadium as a home player, and it’s a shame I can’t get the opportunity to say farewell.
“As for the future, I’m now a free agent and I have no intention of retiring. I face months of rehabbing in my battle for full fitness, but I am surrounded by a top-class team who will ensure I am in great shape to return to play. I am fully committed to becoming the first player in any sport to play at an elite level with two hip resurfacing operations.”
New-Zealand born Reidy will return to his home country at the end of the season.
A stalwart of the club for the last eight years, the Ireland-capped flanker recently made his 150th appearance for Ulster when the club claimed a historic away win over ASM Clermont Auvergne.
“I want to thank everyone at Ulster for making this place feel like home over the past eight years. It has been a privilege to represent the province and to have the opportunity to play for Ireland," he said.
"Belfast has felt like home these past years, and we have made lifelong friendships. I leave this place with only good memories.”
Bangor native Kane made his senior Ulster debut during the 2016/17 season, going on to make 60 appearances for the province.
He is set to join Ealing Trailfinders after a deal was confirmed earlier this week.
Kane said: “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of the players and staff at Ulster Rugby that have helped me during my time here.
“Naturally it is a tough decision to leave your home club, but the time is right for me to move on and progress my career elsewhere.
“Over the eight years that I’ve spent at Ulster, there have been an incredible amount of highlights on and off the field with an amazing group of players.
“I want to wish the club the best of luck for the future. I have no doubt that they will achieve something special which will be well-deserved.”
Meanwhile, exiting O’Connor has already enjoyed a successful stint at Ealing Trailfinders after joining the London club on loan earlier this season.
He made 15 appearances for Ulster and played alongside his brother Alan with the province.
O'Connor said: “I made some incredible memories and friendships along the way.
"To be able to have played professionally with Alan was not just extremely special for me, but for my whole family. Something that will be hard to beat. Thanks to everyone in Ulster from the players and coaches to the staff that made my time so enjoyable.
"All the best to the club and everyone in the future.”
Completing the leavers is Kearney, who joined Ulster on a short-term deal this season and made nine appearances for the club.
Kearney said: “Ulster is a good club, full of good people, working hard to achieve a common goal.
"I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to be a part of this group for the last twelve months, and I’ve no doubt there’s big days ahead for the club.”
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