Wasps star set to join Sharks
AFTER signing up a host of their bigname stars to long-term contracts over recent weeks, Sale are adding to their squad with the signing of Jake Cooper-Woolley from Wasps.
The 29-year-old tighthead prop will join the Sharks from their Premiership rivals on a three-deal at the start of next season.
It is the latest boost for the club in the last few weeks having secured the services of key players Jono Ross, Tom and Ben Curry, Faf de Klerk and Josh Beaumont on extended contracts, and then claiming a stunning win over league leaders Saracens at the AJ Bell Stadium on Friday night to move them right into the mix for the play-offs.
Born in Surrey, CooperWoolley started his rugby career in the Harlequins Academy, leaving to focus on his academic studies at Cardiff University where he studied Geography.
Whilst at University in the Welsh capital, the 6ft 3ins powerhouse played at Cardiff RFC in the Welsh Premiership and also led the University to a Varsity Championship before signing for Wasps in 2013.
He had an impressive first season in the No.3 shirt which led to him winning the club’s Young Player of the Year award, and he has since gone on to make 114 appearances for the Coventry-based side.
“I have had a fantastic six years at Wasps and I would like to thank all the coaches – and especially Dai Young – for the opportunities I have had there,” said Cooper-Woolley.
“However, I feel like the time is right for me to have a change in my career and, after meeting with Steve Diamond and Dorian West and learning about the club’s ambitions – Sale looks like a great opportunity for me to challenge myself in a new environment.
“The club are on the up and, hopefully, I can play a big part in them having a successful future both domestically and in Europe.”
Sale director of rugby Diamond says Cooper-Woolley will be able to help the Sharks in their ambition to be a top-four Premiership club.
He said: “It’s a pleasure to have Jake joining us, his vast experience and ability, not only in the scrum but around the field, will be a massive asset to the club in our desire to become a consistent top four contender in the Gallagher Premiership.”
Sale looks like a great opportunity for me to challenge myself in a new environment Jake Cooper-Woolley