Centre Steff Hughes has today been officially confirmed as the new captain of Dragons RFC for the 2023/24 season in the BKT United Rugby Championship and EPCR Challenge Cup.
Hughes has made a huge impact with the Men of Gwent after linking up with the club ahead of last season, following eight years at Scarlets.
An ultra-consistent performer and model professional, the 29-year-old scored three tries in 18 appearances in his debut season for Dragons.
Head Coach Dai Flanagan has also named four vice captains for the upcoming season – Harrison Keddie, George Nott, Angus O’Brien and Rhodri Williams.
“Steff has made a massive impression on the whole group since joining us,” said Flanagan.
“He is hugely respected by his peers and is a consummate professional.
“Steff is a natural leader, someone who sets the standards for others to follow, and who brings a real calmness and clarity to the group, that is important in captaincy.
“His appointment has the full support of the players and coaching team; he’s a player who has already led from the front in difficult times and someone who will continue to bring our squad together.”
On the appointment of four vice-captains, Flanagan added: “They will support Steff, have been nominated by the players and will form our leadership group.
“They represent the entire playing group and it’s great to see those players take the opportunity.
“We have two half backs, a lineout caller and a former captain so it’s an exciting mix of characters who we believe we blend well together and be a big asset to us going into the new season.”
Steff Hughes said: “It’s a massive honour to captain this great club, that has a brilliant history and I’m really excited for the future.”
“We have a great group of people here, really hard-working people so I’m just excited to get going.”
“For me, it’s not about individuals, it’s about us as a collective and that is a big focus for the squad this year, being team first and the us before me.”
On the four vice-captains, Hughes said: “Having those boys as part of the leadership group here is massive to drive standards around the place, the environment, the culture.”
“There is some real experience in that group and it’s all about us collectively being a cohesive unit and we are all excited to push that forward.”
