Newport Gwent Dragons supporters have received an early Christmas present with the announcement that four of the current Dragons squad have pledged their future to the region. Captain, full back and Grand Slam winner Kevin Morgan, flanker Jamie Ringer and props Adam Black and Rhys Thomas have all signed extensions to their contracts that will see them remain an integral part of the Men of Gwent for the next two seasons.
"Naturally we are delighted that Kevin, Jamie, Adam and Rhys have signed new contracts with the Region," commented rugby manager Jim McCreedy. "They are very much a part of the squad and epitomise what being a team player is about. They are important to our future ambitions and what we want to achieve on the field. Their contribution to the team over the past few seasons has been outstanding and we are delighted they have pledged their future with The Dragons."
Adam Black leads the way in the squad having made the most appearances with 98 and is the current leading try scorer among the forwards with 11. Rhys Thomas has made (77 appearances), and Jamie Ringer (91) and all three forwards have been with the region since the formation of regional rugby. Dragons captain Kevin Morgan has been with the side for three seasons and despite being injured for nine months during this year has made 42 appearances and is joint leading try scorer for the region with 19.
Speaking on his decision to re-sign Morgan enthused, "There is great potential within the squad and a fantastic team spirit. There is no doubt that we have had tough times as a region but we are coming through them on and off field and we are confident that there are good times ahead. There is a strong belief that we are going to fulfil our potential and I very much want to be part of that."
Thomas has been with the side for three and a half years and was performing well, he won a cap on the Welsh tour to Argentina but a chest injury has left him on the sidelines until the end of the season.
"It was very disappointing to pick up an injury especially as I was enjoying a good run of form. However, I am delighted to pledge my loyalty to The Dragons in what is an exciting time for the region," commented Thomas. "There is tremendous team spirit and we are keen to achieve and perform in the Magners League and ensure we secure Heineken Cup rugby for next season. There is a good squad at The Dragons and we have tremendous support, those were also key factors in me signing a new contract."
Jamie Ringer is a favourite with the Rodney Parade crowd and is one of the most consistent performers for The Dragons. He has made the second highest number of starts for the team and was rewarded with a call up to the Welsh squad for their summer tour.
