Urayasu D-Rocks coach’s son signs for Stade Francais

Urayasu D-Rocks assistant coach Isaac Ross’ teenage son Stanley Ross has signed for French giants Stade Francais.

Ex-All Black Ross, 41, who spent nine seasons as a player with Urayasu (then NTT Shining Arcs), is currently part of Graham Rowntree’s coaching team at the division one side.

The former Crusaders second row hails from a family blessed with an extraordinary rugby pedigree with his father Jock an All Black tourist in 1981 while his mother Christine Ross played for the Black Ferns.

Ashburton native Ross, who spent a season with then-Top East League side AZ-COM MOMOTARO’S in 2022, has four children and former USA u18s sevens squad member Stanley is the latest to make a splash in the game after announcing on Saturday that he has penned a deal with the Top 14 powerhouses.

“I’m extremely grateful and excited to announce my commitment to Stade Francais,” said the highly-regarded young full-back on Instagram.

Credit: Stanley Ross' Instagram

The 6ft 5in, 98kg talent was previously part of then-MLR side San Diego Legion’s (now California Legion) academy and is known for his evasive footwork, his aerial ability, goal-kicking and hefty boot.

All-rounder Ross, 18, also has experience playing American football as a punter and tight end for the San Marcos High School Knights and has been recognised for his achievements in basketball and track and field for San Marcos High School in California.

The third-generation rugby hotshot is now set to move to Paris to join Stade Francais’s academy.

Ross has American football experience

Stanley thanked everyone who has helped him on his journey to securing a contract with the two-time European Champions Cup runners-up who will play La Rochelle in a Top 14 semi-final qualifier tomorrow morning (04.05 Japan Time).

“Thank you to my family for all the support, sacrifices, and guidance throughout this journey. I wouldn’t be where I am today without you.

“Thank you to all of my coaches and teammates who have helped shape me into the player and person I am today.

“Lastly, thank you to my village. To all the mums and dads, families, and supporters who gave me rides to training and games. You’ve all had a huge impact on my journey and I’m incredibly grateful for everything you’ve done.”