Dragons RFC are pleased to announce that versatile back David Richards has signed a new contract to remain with his home club.
Richards re-signed for a second spell with Men of Gwent this season following impressive performances with Newport RFC, helping the Black and Ambers to the Super Rygbi Cymru title.
The 25-year-old – who can operate at wing, centre or full back – has made 15 appearances to date this term, scoring four tries, including the last play winner against Zebre Parma last Friday night.
His four tries this season - against Scarlets, Newcastle Red Bulls, Munster and Zebre - add to a brace he scored against the Italian outfit during the 2022/23 season.
“I feel honoured to be a part of the squad this year, something 12 months ago I’d probably given up on,” said Richards.
“To have been a part of a team that feels like it’s really building to something, has been pretty special.
“Representing Gwent is huge. Everywhere you go in the community you see how much rugby means to people - it’s for them that you want to try and take Dragons forward.
“They epitomise what Gwent rugby is about with the passion they bring to Rodney Parade.
“There’s a good feeling in camp and I’m looking forward to this weekend’s EPCR Challenge Cup semi-final in Montpellier and all that comes after it as well.”
Richards - sponsored by WBC Group - attended Haberdashers’ Monmouth School, having previously grown up in Abu Dhabi.
A product of the Dragons Academy, he made his club debut for the Men of Gwent in April 2022 against Gloucester Rugby.
“It’s great news that Dai has extended his stay,” said Senior Coach Matt O’Brien.
“He’s another player who has come through our pathway at the region and has now established himself within the senior squad with some strong performances this season, showing some great one v one ability and scoring some very important tries for the club.
“He’s a great character in the group and Dai’s story is one of real resilience and determination, having battled through some tough injuries early on in his career and having some time away from the professional game playing with Newport in the SRC.
“Dai’s improving week on week and I look forward to seeing him continue to do so over the next few years with the Dragons.”
Representing Gwent is huge. Everywhere you go in the community you see how much rugby means to people - it’s for them that you want to try and take Dragons forward...
