COVENTRY Rugby have signed three new players ahead of the 2026/27 season after reaching the Champ Rugby play-off semi-finals.
Fly-half Bruce Houston, back-row forward Rhys Tait and versatile back Matt McNab have all agreed terms to play at the Nick Newbold Stadium next season.
Houston most recently played for USBPA Rugby in France and previously featured for both Ealing Trailfinders and Cornish Pirates in England’s second tier.
Houston said: “I’m delighted to be joining Coventry. The ambition of the club and the direction it’s heading in made it an easy decision. I’m looking forward to meeting the boys and the staff and having a season we can remember.
“The opportunity to play in front of such a passionate fan base and contribute my skill set to Coventry’s exciting brand of rugby is something I’m really looking forward to.”
Rae added: “From the moment I spoke to Bruce, what stood out was his energy and desire to be part of something here at Coventry.
“Couple that with his ability in multiple positions and previous experience in this league, it’s really exciting to get him on board.”
Playmaker Houston can operate at fly-half and inside centre and amassed 238 points in 50 appearances for Cornish Pirates in the Champ.
The 26-year-old began his rugby journey with Randalstown and later progressed through the Ulster Rugby pathway.
Playmaker Houston can operate at fly-half and inside centre and recently earned his first international cap for Zimbabwe.
Back-row forward Tait joins Cov from Champ rivals Doncaster Knights where the 23-year-old established himself across 70 appearances.
Tait captained Scotland at under-20 level and spent time with Glasgow Warriors before moving to England’s second tier.
Tait said: “I am super excited and grateful to continue my rugby journey at Coventry.
“Coventry play an exciting brand of rugby and draw in big crowds, which I can’t wait to be a part of.
“I’m excited to see what we can do with what seems to be a very promising squad for the upcoming campaign.”
Rae added: “Delighted to bring Rhys to Coventry. Everyone we’ve spoken to has only said great things about him as a player, but also as a person.
“He will really fit into what we do here. He’s dynamic, tough and has a great skillset.
“We’re excited to see how we can push him on further.”
And McNab also makes the move to Coventry from Doncaster where he scored 35 tries in 71 games.
The 27-year-old can play on the wing or at outside centre and has earned 22 caps for Zimbabwe.
McNab progress to Champ Rugby with Hartpury and spent two years at the Pirates before joining the Knights.
McNab said: “Joining Coventry is a great opportunity for me.
“The club has clear ambition and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in with the group and hopefully sharing plenty of good moments with the players, staff and supporters next season.”
Rae added: “Great to welcome Matt to Coventry. He’s a player who has always impressed us.
“His pace and power and ability to beat people will really suit how we want to attack.
“What really stood out was how much he wants to contribute to the team off the field and be part of something special.”
