Gareth
was considered a real coup when he signed for the Earth Titans in 2006, the former
Dungannon and Ulster development player a Premiership prospect in the making.
With a growing reputation for having a cool head under pressure, it was no surprise
that he amassed 264 league points in his one season with the Titans, and we were
delighted to welcome him 'on board' in 2007.
Gareth
first played rugby at Armstrong Primary School and Armagh Rugby Club, and when
older at The Royal School, Armagh, where he played in the same team as present
Irish international Tommy Bowe. Two years followed at Queen's University, Belfast,
before he joined Dungannon, a famous club that has produced many fine players,
including David Humphreys.
Playing
two years for Ireland U21s, Gareth received a prestigious prize from Ireland for
being the top points scorer in the U21s World Championship for two years in succession.
They were highlight occasions, Ireland runners-up to New Zealand in the World
Championships at Scotland in 2004, and him captaining his country for the Six
Nations and 2005 World Championships held in Argentina. A fond memory club-wise
was completing the double over Leeds in 2006-07, and spoiling the Tykes promotion
party at the Headingley Carnegie Stadium on their last home game of the season.
The
backing of sporting parents has motivated Gareth from a young age, as is the support
given by his brother Jonny who plays for Armagh at full-back.
Besides
rugby, Gareth has enjoyed a number of sports, has had soccer trials with West
Ham and Tottenham, and also played for the Ulster Schools cricket team. He also
has a HND Certificate from the College of Belfast Institute, in Leisure Management
& Recreation, and was offered a position at Stramillis University, but he
opted for a rugby career.
Commenting
on his move to the Pirates, Gareth said "Since I was a kid all I've ever
wanted to do is play professional rugby, and that's what I'm going to get down
in Cornwall. Hopefully they can develop me further and help me get back into a
green jersey again, I'm looking forward to the challenge."
