Centre Aneurin Owen is determined to help Dragons RFC build on the growth of last season – with pre-season and the countdown to the new BKT United Rugby Championship season now officially under way.
Owen enjoyed an impressive 25/26 campaign that culminated in him being named the Dragon Signs Tony Brown Player of the Season for a second season - becoming only the second player to win the award back-to-back after Joe Bearman who achieved the same feat in 2007/08 and 2008/09.
The 25-year-old – fast closing in on a century of appearances for the Men of Gwent - was also recognised by his peers as he was named the Bluetube Scaffolding Ed Jackson Players’ Player of the Season.
But now his focus is on the pre-season and preparations for the upcoming season, with high hopes to climb up the league and enjoy another cup run in Europe.
“As a team, I think it’s all about improving on last season and those building blocks,” he said.
“It’s been a tough pre-season already, it’s been hard and it’s been hot - the weather has been challenging. But we are enjoying it.
“We’re looking to build and develop all parts of our game, in both our defence and attack.
“On a personal level, I just want to develop my game. I have some aspirations that I want to hit.
“The down time in off season is always important,” he added. “You forget about rugby, the mental switch off is the most important thing.
“You then build-up for the return so when you come back you hit the ground running. Every day is about pushing yourself and getting better as a player and as a group, and we are enjoying it.”
The off season has seen three new confirmed signings in Ere Enari, Anzelo Tuitavuki and Terrell Peita.
And Owen believes the continuity of the squad with a smattering of new faces will be beneficial.
“I think it’s the most settled the squad has been going from one season to another,” he said.
“Normally there’s quite a bit of changeover, but it’s similar this season, which has been good in terms of what we are building.
“Those people who come in, or will come in, will add real value.
“The new staff who have come in have also really strengthened us and can really help the players.”
And Owen believes that, with the help of the squad around him at the Dragons, he can continue to develop into his leadership role at the club.
“I feel like I’ve developed the leadership side of things, the more I’ve grown within the team,” he added.
“There are some great leaders and captains within the team, so I’m just trying to support them really. I’ve really enjoyed the responsibility.”
Owen and Dragons RFC open the new BKT United Rugby Championship season away to Benetton Rugby at Stadio Monigo on September 25. Join the #DragonsFamily and Owen today! Season Membership is available NOW to calling 01633 670690 or clicking HERE
There are some great leaders and captains within the team, so I’m just trying to support them really. I’ve really enjoyed the responsibility...
