Joe Bearman signs new Ospreys contract extension

Ospreys back-row Joe Bearman joined Newport Gwent Dragons from Cornish Pirates in 2005

Ospreys back-row Joe Bearman has signed a new one-year deal.

The 36-year-old arrived at Liberty Stadium from Newport Gwent Dragons in summer 2011 but was out of contract at the end of the season.

However, the Newquay-born player has been rewarded for his efforts this season with another 12 months.

"I'm really happy about getting another year. I'm feeling good and I'm pleased that the coaches think I can still do a job for the team," Bearman said.

"There are plenty of youngsters in the squad so I'm expected to add a bit of experience in and around the place day in, day out and I'm enjoying myself more than ever."

Bearman made his debut for Ospreys as a replacement in the 32-14 win over Ulster in September 2011, with his first start coming two weeks later as the Ospreys defeated Munster 17-13.

Having helped the region to a fourth league title the following May, he has 84 Ospreys appearances to his credit to date and has scored four tries.

Andrew Millward, Ospreys rugby general manager, said: "Joe has been excellent for us. He's an old stager, one of the experienced guys, but he's still in great condition and is able to add something to the mix, particularly during those periods when we are missing as many as four or five international back-row players.

"He's a good personality to have in our environment who can be a positive influence on the youngsters. When the going gets tough, Joe does get going."

Bearman follows on from Jeff Hassler, Tyler Ardron and Justin Tipuric in signing new contracts this season, while Ospreys have also confirmed the return of Wales prop Paul James and the signing of former New Zealand scrum-half Brendon Leonard for next season.