Western Mail

HARRIS AMONG DEPARTURES AT THE DRAGONS

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THE Dragons have confirmed the 13 players leaving the region at the end of the season.

Brok Harris, a firm fan favourite, with 142 appearance­s for the Dragons, leads the list as he prepares to return to home to South Africa with his family.

The 36-year-old has spent seven years at Rodney Parade, earning cult hero status in the process.

Dean Ryan, Director of Dragons Rugby, said: “Brok has been an outstandin­g player for Dragons over the last seven seasons and fantastic to work with during my time at the region.

“He has produced many memorable performanc­es and has also been a true role model to those around him.

“We wish Brok and his young family every success back in South Africa and I know I speak for everyone connected to the Dragons when I say he will always be welcomed back at Rodney Parade.”

Joining him in heading out the exit door is former captain Lewis Evans, who is retiring from the game after representi­ng the Dragons a record 236 times across 15 seasons. He’s now heading to Hong Kong to take up a coaching role.

Heading up the rest of the leavers is second row Matthew Screech, who returns to Cardiff Rugby, where he came through the academy as a youngster before ending up in Newport.

He’s gone on to play 163 times for the Dragons, showing impressive form in recent seasons.

Meanwhile, Arwel Robson has secured a one-year contract with Cornish Pirates. At one time it looked as though the former Wales under-20s star could be the region’s long-term fly-half.

But the 24-year-old has seen his progress stunted by a series of injuries and has now left the region permanentl­y. He’s joined at Mennaye Field by Ed Scragg and Carwyn Penny.

Connor Edwards has agreed a deal with Doncaster Knights, while Dafydd Howells, Rhys Lawrence, onloan scrum-half Luke Baldwin, Deon Smith, Joe Goodchild and Storm Hanekom are also leaving.

“We thank all the players for their hard work and profession­alism throughout their time at Dragons,” added Ryan.

“All of the players leave with our best wishes for their future ambitions in rugby or away from the game.”

On the management side, skills coach Barry Maddocks is also leaving his post.

“Everyone at Dragons is grateful to Barry for his efforts during his time at the region and we wish him the best in the next chapter of his coaching career,” said Ryan.

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> Brok Harris is leaving the Dragons

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