Mackenzie Martin admits he is loving life at Dragons RFC after a summer switch on loan – and revealed how the backing of Head Coach Filo Tiatia has got him playing with a smile on his face.
Wales international Martin will spend the season at Rodney Parade after the 21-year-old back-row, who won five Wales caps in 2024, moved from the capital.
Martin will be pushing for a first chance as the Men of Gwent jet to Belfast to tackle Ulster in the BKTUnited Rugby Championship opener on Friday evening (kick-off 8.05pm).
The forward from Ely has already been taken to the hearts of the Dragons faithful after two cameos in pre-season victories over Hartpury and Scarlets.
And Martin is looking forward to making Newport is home as he looks to hope he club kick on and improve this campaign.
"The vibes are great," he said. "There has been change, a big turnover and the environment is amazing, which will help us grow whether through wins or performances.
"I know it was only pre-season, but we went two from two and that's better than losing games. We are on the right trajectory, I am happy to be here.
"Filo really wanted me at the club and I just wanted game time," added Martin. "He said that he could offer me that as long as I train well.
"As long as I can stay fit, hopefully I will get game time, but I know that there are a lot of excellent back rows here. I want to work my way into the squad and keep myself there."
Martin will find himself up challenging Wales international Aaron Wainwright at Dragons and he is excited to work with a player with whom he won five international caps alongside.
"It's not easy (competing) with 'Waino' but we have a good relationship and have done a couple of Wales camps together," he said.
"We know our strengths and weaknesses and have to compete with each other, but that just makes us both and the squad better.
"Waino can play across the back row and I can play six or eight, so I am sure they can work us both in if they want to.
"After the season I had, I just want to play. Of course, I want to start as many games as I can, but I am not stressing.
"I am just happy to be in a good environment. That's all I can ask for and the games will come as long as I stay fit and train well."
The vibes are great... There has been change, a big turnover and the environment is amazing, which will help us grow whether through wins or performances....
