Olympic Sevens medallist Chay Mullins signs one-year deal with Ulster

Chay Mullins has joined Ulster on a one-year deal, the 24-year-old winger completing a move from Connacht as he looks to establish himself in 15-a-side rugby after a decorated career in the Sevens format.

Mullins represented Ireland at the 2024 Paris Olympics and claimed a bronze medal at the Sevens World Cup in 2022. He also featured for Ireland U20s before making the transition to the longer format, joining Connacht in 2024 and marking his debut with a hat-trick against Zebre Parma.

The move reunites Mullins with familiar faces in the Ulster coaching setup. Head coach Richie Murphy previously worked with him in the Ireland U20s programme, while Mark Sexton, who coached Mullins at Connacht, is also part of the Ulster staff.

“This is a really exciting move for me, and I was delighted to have this opportunity,” Mullins told The42. “I know the coaching staff very well from my time at the Irish U20s under Richie and having worked with Mark Sexton at Connacht. Having watched Ulster last season, it was clear to see the freedom they are playing in attack and I feel that suits my game. Hopefully I can add to the team and progress as a player.”

Ulster Rugby General Manager Rory Best welcomed the signing, pointing to Mullins’ versatility and his potential to push for a place in the Irish setup. “With his promise shown in the Sevens programme and at Connacht, he represents a fantastic market opportunity for us,” Best said. “His versatility will be a welcome addition into our backline, and he will add strong competition for selection.”

Mullins’ arrival gives Ulster an athletic, pace-carrying option across the back three as the province prepares for the upcoming URC season.