Elliot Dee commits his future to Dragons
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Dragons have secured the talented Elliot Dee as he signs a long-term contract with the Region.
The 23-year-old has flourished since the arrival of Head Coach Bernard Jackman, gaining two Man of the Match awards in the PRO14 and scoring five tries in just six matches; “It feels great to have hit a bit of form for the Region that I love, and I am really proud to have signed a new three-year deal for the Dragons.
“I have always wanted to be a Dragon, since coming down to Rodney Parade to watch the likes of Rob Sidoli and Tom Willis play – I am from Gwent and I wouldn’t have wanted to sign anywhere else.”
Dee had attracted interest from rival clubs but wanted to remain at his home Region where he made his journey on the Dragons pathway alongwith his friends; “There’s probably a group of 8-10 boys who I have grown up with and played rugby alongside. We always say before we go out and play that there is nothing better than going to war with your friends, you can look to your left or your right and you know that they will put 100% in.”
The youngster, who was recently named in the Wales Autumn International squad for the upcoming 2017 Under Armour series, came through the ranks of the Dragons’ Principality Premiership Clubs to become a permanent Dragons squad member. He came through both Pontypool and Bedwas RFC whilst also being involved in the Dragons Academy set-up.
Before his time in the Dragons Academy, Dee played for Newbridge RFC as a young boy and went onto the play for Newbridge School, before Penallta RFC. Following this he featured for both Wales’ U18’s and U20’s teams.
Dragons Head Coach, Bernard Jackman added: “Elliot is one of the hardest trainers I have coached. He strives to get better every day and is passionate about the Dragons and the future of the Region.
“I feel the environment that we are creating at the Dragons can help Elliot fulfil his dream of playing for Wales.”