Dragons Academy product Chris Coleman is determined to keep his head down and continue his education at Dragons – despite graduating onto the top stage this season.
Tighthead prop Coleman has been a regular feature in the match day squad this season and has been handed the starting three jersey in the last three games.
The 23-year-old – who recently signed new terms with his home region – will start again this weekend as Dragons tackle league leaders Ulster at Rodney Parade.
Boss Dean Ryan has pinpointed Coleman for praise in recent weeks for the manner of his performances.
But the young front row insists, while words of admiration have been a confidence boost, he is simple keen to keep learning from those around him and in the heat of senior battle.
“I'm really enjoying learning and obviously I’ve played quite a bit more this season,” he said.
“All the coaches have helped me and the players around me help me a lot as well, with developing in the scrum and everything else in my game.
“Minutes under your belt are crucial,” he added. “You can train as much as you want but playing is completely different. I want to keep working hard and playing as much as possible.
“Mesake (Doge) and Leon (Brown) have been good. I learn from them both, although Leon is away now so that gives me an opening. They help me and I enjoy playing with them.
“The trust to play and start from the coaching team is big.
“You get a bit more confident once you start playing, a bit more comfortable with that, knowing you can compete at this level. Hopefully I can kick on more now.”
Read more from Chris Coleman in an interview in our official match day programme this weekend.