Dragons Head Coach Paul Turner has signed a new two-year contract extension which will see him remain at the helm of the Dragons until May 2012.
The former Welsh international has been coaching the Dragons since his return to Wales from the English Premiership in 2005, and during his time at the region his commitment to developing local talent has seen the emergence of young Welsh stars at both senior and age-grade level such as Danny Lydiate, Ashley Smith and Jason Tovey.
“I am Delighted the board have shown every confidence in my ability to continue to move the Region forward,” said Turner. “This is an important time of year for us and me as head coach in regards to retention and recruitment of players for the forthcoming seasons. I enjoy working for the Dragons as this is my region and one where I was born and brought up in.
“My aim with the coaches and staff here at Rodney Parade is to continue to drive and push the Dragons forward so that we continue to develop and become a major player in the Magners league and in Europe. We have a young developing coaching staff under me and I look forward to working with them to develop this exciting bunch of players we have here.”
“Paul’s commitment, pride and passion about the Dragons and Gwent Rugby is without question and we are delighted to retain his services until at least 2012,” said Dragons Chief Executive Gethin Jenkins.
“Over the past 5 seasons we have seen the Dragons grow as an organisation, team and as individuals and Paul has played a key role in this regard. We are pleased that he will continue to help us with our aims of continued growth and development and the emergence of local talent.”
Dragons Rugby Manager Robert Beale said “Extending Head Coach Paul Turners contract for the next two years gives the Dragons stability going forward and I look forward to working closely with Paul and his Coaching Team in implementing the many changes required to secure our business forward.”
