National Academy centre, Alex Dunbar, has achieved a lifelong dream of becoming a Glasgow Warriors player having signed a two-year deal with the club.

Dunbar, who has already chalked up two appearances for the Warriors, has represented Glasgow at every age-grade level and today penned his first professional contract just two weeks before his 20th birthday (23 April).

A product of Annan RFC, where he was voted U18 player of the season in 2005/06 and 2006/07, Dunbar will join the Warriors from Scottish Hydro Premier 1 side Selkirk with whom he has played since 2008.

He said: "I've always thought about earning a pro contract with the Warriors when coming through the age-grades in Glasgow so it's great to finally do it. It's always something that I've aspired to."

This season, Dunbar made his first start for the Warriors in December when they defeated Ulster at Ravehill (25-13).

Warriors head coach, Sean Lineen, said: "Alex started for us against Ulster and did a very good job.

"He is a youngster who could have a massive future in the game if he wants it. He just loves to play rugby."

On his first start in a Glasgow jersey, Dunbar continued: "Winning in Ulster was a great achievement. I was just delighted to be part of the team at that level and I've thoroughly enjoyed training with the squad this year."

Dunbar becomes the 21st National Academy supported player to gain a professional contract, and the 19th to join one of Scotland's two pro-teams, since November 2007.

His elevation to the professional ranks has come as a result of huge personal effort, but he admits that he wouldn't be where he is today had it not been for the guidance of Scottish Rugby's National Academy.

"The Academy has been great for me and I'd like to give a special thanks to my coaches Alun Powell and Bryan Easson who have put in a lot of work with me over the past year."

National Academy manager, Stephen Gemmell, added: "It's great to see another young Scottish player join one of the country's professional teams.

"Alex has come through our development pathway structure - from playing club rugby with Annan through to Premier 1 level with Selkirk, he has represented Scotland at all age-grade levels and Scotland 7s - now following some experience with Glasgow Warriors, he has finally realised his dream of becoming a fulltime professional rugby player.

"I wish Alex all the best and hope that, like some of those that have gone before, we will see him reach his full potential and make an impact on the professional game."