Gareth Wyatt has been entrusted with the captains armband for the first major test of the season when the Newport Gwent Dragons face a big challenge in the It's a Knockout competition that is taking place this Sunday at Rodney Parade.
"This is a super accolade to be made captain for such a big occasion," Gareth beamed, "it's going to be a long hard season and this first big match is one we are determined to win."
The Dragons have selected a very strong squad for the Fun Day as they are determined to give it their all. With the knowledge that a number of the games will be in soaking wet conditions and others will be dry they have picked a team based on strength and speed.
Welsh internationals Ceri Sweeny, Jamie Ringer, Ian Gough and Nathan Brew team up with Dragons regulars Andrew Hall, Adam Black and Gareth Baber to form the basis of the team.
Newcomers Matt Jess, Joe Bearman, Shane Stewart and Aled Brew will be keen to impress the Rodney Parade faithful and should be rewarded by a keen reception from the fans.
Whilst for youngsters Ashley Smith, James Harris and James Corsi it is a wonderful opportunity for them to demonstrate their skills.
"Some teams may think that this is just a bit of fun," said a focused vice captain Gareth Baber, " but by looking at the team we have picked you can see that we are going out to win."
The opposition includes some very strong local teams including Newports' own Black and Ambers. Coach Ian Hembrow sees the Family Fun Day as an ideal opportunity to take The Dragons on head to head, "We are looking forward to the competition and I see this as an ideal way for our new players to bond with some of the older faces."
Other competition comes in the form of local firms Bisley and Uskmouth Power.
As well as the It's A Knockout Competition there is also a whole host of other activities for youngsters to enjoy from bouncy castles to live music and face painting.
The kick off for It's A Knockout Competition is timed at 2:30pm and will be played out on the cabbage patch in front of the club house. It will follow the junior rugby tournaments being played on the hallowed Rodney Parade pitch. The rugby tournaments kick off at 12.30pm and will feature teams from NHSOB, Cwmbran, Newbridge, Penallta & Ystrad Mynach and Monmouth.
The activities will actually commence at 12 with attractions including various sideshows and displays. Fitness First will offer free membership for the best time scored above that of the tallest man in Welsh rugby Luke Charteris over one minute on a rowing machine.
The Knockout competition is being organised by Fun & Leisure Event Specialists Ltd based in Meopham Kent who are determined to make sure everyone has a fun time.
"I'm gutted I can't play" said a forlorn Mike Owen sidelined through injury, "but I'm going to be there to give my support to my team."
Why not follow his example and make your way on Sunday and enjoy a fun start to the rugby season. The smile is returning to the face of Rodney Parade.
