Our #NextGen announcements start here! Dragons RFC are pleased to announce that talented young centre Joe Westwood has agreed a long-term senior contract with the Men of Gwent.
The 20-year-old – who made his club debut in the European clash with Hollywoodbets Sharks in January and has made four senior appearances – has put pen to paper on a multi-year contract at Rodney Parade.
A Wales Under-20 international and product of the club’s Academy system, Westwood has already showcased his versatility operating on the wing and centre.
Westwood comes from a strong rugby pedigree. His grandfather, Keith Westwood, was a fine player for Ebbw Vale and Newbridge – and even lined up against the All Blacks for the Combined Abertillery & Ebbw Vale side in 1963 at Abertillery Park.
Joe’s father, Jonathan – now Commercial Director at Dragons RFC - played for Wales U19 and U21, earned a call-up to the Wales National Squad and also faced the world champion Wallabies for Monmouthshire on their 1992 tour.
And his grandfather on his mother’s side is none other than Allan Lewis, who played for Abertillery and Newport, was capped six times by Wales and famously was part of the 1966 British & Irish Lions squad that toured Australia and New Zealand.
And the latest Westwood and powerful Caerphilly-born midfielder – who stands at over 6ft 3in and weighs over 100kg – has been earmarked by boss Dai Flanagan as the club’s long-term successor in midfield.
“It’s great news that Joe has signed a long-term deal with us as we firmly see him as a future 13 for our club,” said Flanagan.
“He is a big man and great athlete; built to be a modern-day rugby player, and he has a fantastic skillset from his time playing in multiple positions in junior rugby.
“Joe is an exciting prospect for this club, and we look forward to seeing how he develops and pushes on in the coming seasons.
Westwood said: “I’m really pleased to sign for my home club and commit to the Dragons.
“I’ve really enjoyed the chance to represent the club this season and my focus now is on taking every opportunity that I can earn.”
It’s great news that Joe has signed a long-term deal with us as we firmly see him as a future 13 for our club...
