Leicester Tigers have agreed a new deal with tighthead prop Joe Heyes.
The 22-year-old has made 87 senior appearances for the club since debuting in 2018 after graduating from the Tigers Academy.
“This is my club and this is my home, to represent the passionate people of Leicestershire and our supporters is a huge honour"
Joe Heyes
Heyes has represented England at Under-18 and Under-20s age-group levels, including back to back World Rugby U20 Championships in 2018 and 2019.
During the recent summer internationals, Heyes made his Test debut in England’s win over the United States of America at Twickenham before facing Canada a week later.
The front-rower is currently in camp with England ahead of the 2022 Six Nations.
Discussing his decision to extend his time at the club, Heyes said: “This is my club and this is my home, to represent the passionate people of Leicestershire and our supporters is a huge honour.
“It's very personal for me because my grandad used to play just across the road at Filbert Street and being a part of the proud sporting history of Leicester is amazing.”
Heyes also added the influence of Steve Borthwick, learning from Dan Cole and experience of playing in front of Leicester supporters as reasons for agreeing a new deal.
“Steve has challenged me on and off the pitch and made be believe what I can achieve with hard work and dedication,” said Heyes.
“The coaching staff that Steve has put together are incredible human beings and care deeply about the players, each other and the club.
“To be able to compete with the one of the most accomplishment tightheads in the world in Dan Cole and learn from him by competing daily, is a privilege.
“When I walked down those famous steps and onto the pitch for the very first time, I would try and spot my family, my ex-coaches, my old college teacher and my familiar faces.
“Now as I do the exact thing, I realise that everybody there is part of our Tigers Family.
“To be able to play and represent us, is a privilege and something that I want to do, for a very long time.”
Speaking about Heyes, Leicester Tigers Head Coach Steve Borthwick said: “Joe is a young man but still very experienced already.
“He continues to work hard and is getting better and better as a player, which is fantastic to see.
“Joe is not only an academy graduate, but someone who cares deeply about the club and this team.”
