The former Reading Mini was at the final home game of last season – the 61-40 victory against Sedgley Park – and said it made returning from America an easy decision.
He explained: “I was at the last game and everyone was so lovely, the vibe was incredible.
“Straight away you feel the community around the club and I’m unbelievably excited to hopefully put the shirt on for the first time.
“I can’t wait to be part of a side which puts on expansive, exciting rugby in front of amazing fans.
“Rams have been the top-tier side in the local area for the past decade and if I can help get that promotion, it would mean the world to me.”
Millfield scholarship and London Irish Academy
Schooled at Leighton Park before gaining a sixth form scholarship to Millfield, the now 27-year-old then made a big decision which has seen him across the pond for almost a decade.
He continued: “I was in my last year and this lady came in and talked about scholarships you could get to America.
“At the time I wasn’t doing too well with my academics and while I was part of the London Irish Academy, I knew I wasn’t going to get a full-time contract.
“So I looked at the options, thought ‘I want to get a degree’ and then this offer came.
“My guide at Millfield said ‘why on earth would you go to America – someone of your talent shouldn’t be going over there’ – but it’s turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made.”
American Dream becomes reality
Connor initially studied international business at Lindenwood University in Missouri, before joining Utah Warriors and most recently Miami Sharks in Major League Rugby.
Reflecting on his time in the States, he added: “When I signed with Utah the league was on the rise, ESPN were on board, there were new teams like Miami and New York coming in, and the crowds were always sold out.
“I remember seeing guys like Ma’a Nonu, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Matt Giteau, Chris Robshaw – I was gutted I didn’t get the chance to play against him and get the classic Millfield photo – guys I’d idolised growing up, in the same league and it was cool.
“It’s been massive for me but I’m equally happy to be back home.
“It’s a big circle for me, I’ve done a lot of different things but now I’m back home, everything about joining Rams feels right. This is the natural next step.”
Alex Sparkes Connor’s arrival
And Connor, whose hobbies include golf and cooking, revealed it was a former Ram who helped smooth the path to Old Bath Road, where he there are some familiar facesamong of his new teammates.
He said: “I kind of know Max Hayman and Ben Atkins from when I was younger.
“Ben went through the Irish set-up and Max I know through one of my best mates Alex Sparkes.
“He was the way I got in touch – he loved his time and was so complimentary. I’m so excited.”
With the first pre-season game at home to Clifton now less than a month away, Connor ended by revealing what he hopes to bring to Rams.
Standing 6ft 4in and weighing 103kg, he closed: “I think my strengths are kicking game and aerial ability. I’m confident I can send a ball up in the air 40 or 50 metres and field things the same way.
“Being the height I am I see that as a point of difference as a back three player.”
