Dragons celebrate triple triumph of new contracts
HOT on the heels of Wales securing a Triple Crown last weekend, the Dragons have secured their own triple triumph by securing the services of international trio Leon Brown, Elliot Dee and Aaron Wainwright on new contracts.
Tight-head prop Brown was the final piece in the contractual jig-saw for Dragons rugby director Dean Ryan as he followed in the footsteps of hooker Dee and back -row man Wainwright this week in putting pen to paper on long-term deals.
“It’s great to see our Wales internationals all commit to their home region,” said a delighted Ryan.
“Leon is a big talent who has a huge desire to get push himself to get better and bring success to the Dragons, while Elliot is passionate about playing for us and determined to play a big role in our future success as a region.
“He has aspirations for the future, both for Dragons and Wales, and we’re pleased that he feels our environment is the best place for him to achieve those goals.
“It’s also pleasing to see Aaron has signed a long-term deal. It’s great to retain homegrown talent and I’m delighted that he sees us as the ideal platform to help him achieve further international honours.”
Brown made his debut back in 2016. Now 24, he has won 15 senior Welsh caps to date.
“I am pleased to be staying at Dragons for another three years. It’s a place where I enjoy playing, which is a big part in my decision, I am excited to see where we can now take the region,” said Brown.
The 26-year-old Dee added: “I grew up watching the Dragons, it’s close to my heart and I’m proud every time I pull on the jersey. As a kid I used to sit in the stand at Rodney Parade and dream about playing for the Dragons.”
Wainwright, 23, said: “Dean is definitely guiding us in the right direction and I want to be a big part of what he’s doing here.
“Champions Cup rugby and the prospect of pushing higher in the league really excites me.”
CONNAH’S Quay Nomads have signed experienced Football League midfielder Neil Danns.
The Guyana International, 38, started his career with Blackburn Rovers, going on to make over 400 League appearances.
The majority of his career was spent in the English Championship, including over 100 appearances for Crystal Palace between 2008-2011, 106 at Bolton Wanderers and 30 at Leicester City, where he was one of Sven Goran-Erikkson’s first signings.
Danns came to the attention of Quay boss Andy Morrison in a behind closed doors game for Chorley against Nomads.
Chorley ultimately had their season curtailed prematurely and Danns became available.
Morrison said: “It’s not about numbers, it’s about quality and Neil brings great quality and great experience.
“When games get a bit tasty and there are huge pressure games you want experience, you want legs, you want people that have been at a level where that game won’t phase them.
“Neil’s come in and signed until the end of the season and I’m absolutely delighted.”