Talented Wales age-grade international Louie Hennessey has joined Bath after leaving Cardiff's academy, it has been announced.
The 18-year-old centre has signed a contract at The Rec where he will combine his studies at the University of Bath.
The Cardiff native spent a few years with the Welsh capital region's academy and has also come through the ranks of Hartpury College, developing a reputation for clinical finishing along the way while boasting a natural skillset.
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He was a beneficiary of the English college's partnership with Wales' regions - announced back in 2020 - which allowed players, like Hennessey, to study for their A-levels - or earn diploma qualifications - at the Gloucester-based college while continuing to remain part of their Welsh club’s U18s academy.
This term, Hennessey has enjoyed a strong season at Hartpury College, helping his side to 10 wins from 10 in the ACE League, while also turning out for Wales U18s for the first time in this year's U18s Six Nations festival.
"Bath provides me with the opportunity to work with an excellent group of players and to develop my game under the new coaching group," he said.
"I was drawn by the opportunity to be the best player I can be. The link with rugby and the university is also perfect for me, as I continue to focus on my development both on and off the field. I can’t wait to get started."
Another youngster to sign for Bath is physical back-rower/lock JJ Tonks, who captained Hartpury College to an AASE League title in 2017. The 22-year-old won a silver medal at the Commonwealth Youth Games with England Sevens ahead of England U18s and U20s honours. He joins Bath from Northampton Saints.
Our sister title Somerset Live reports that both signings were agreed while chairman Ed Griffiths was overseeing recruitment at the club before leaving on May 25, but all additions have been signed off by Johann van Graan, who will arrive at Bath from Munster as head of rugby on July 1.
