Sevens stars sign for Steamers

Regan Ware.

New Zealand Sevens players Teddy Stanaway and Regan Ware have signed with the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union for the 2016 Mitre 10 Cup season.

They will join New Zealand Sevens team mate Joe Webber representing the Bay of Plenty Steamers this season following their return from the Rio Olympics.

Mount Maunganui Sports' Stanaway last played for the Steamers in 2014 and returned from injury to the Sevens game last year.

In December Stanaway debuted for the All Black Sevens team in Cape Town following his call up into the squad as an injury replacement. His consistent form on the international circuit this year has seen him earn a spot in the All Blacks Sevens squad for the Rio Olympics.

Ware, 21, a former New Zealand Secondary Schools representative, has had an outstanding first year in international sevens rugby, nominated for the Rookie of the Year.

Ware was selected in the All Blacks Sevens squad for Rio alongside Bay of Plenty team mates, Stanaway, Webber and Scott Curry.

Ware is excited about the opportunity to play for the Bay of Plenty Steamers this year.

"Following a few tournaments for the New Zealand sevens, I was fortunate enough to be offered the opportunity to play for the Bay. I know a number of guys in the team and so it makes it a little bit easier. I am glad to have the opportunity and I am looking forward to it."

Ware already is enjoying the local community connection in the Eastern Bay of Plenty following the New Zealand Sevens Squad camp.

"It was great to give back to the community and really good to be out in Whakatane and Opotiki."

Mike Rogers, Bay of Plenty Rugby Union chief executive, said: "Both Teddy and Regan are talented players and they will bring plenty of the sevens flare into our Steamers side. I am sure our fans will enjoy watching. We are excited to see them proudly representing New Zealand at the upcoming Olympics alongside follow Bay of Plenty players Joe Webber and Scott Curry."