Pontypool RFC is pleased to announce the signing of Garin Price from Newport RFC, as the club continues to strengthen its squad ahead of next season.
The 21-year-old number 8 joins the club after spending the 2019-2020 season at Rodney Parade. Prior to his stint with Newport, Price spent his formative years playing youth rugby for Newbridge RFC, before going on to represent the Dragons at several age-grade levels.
The forward played for the regional side at Under-16 and Under-18 level, as well as for the Under-23s team in the Celtic Cup. During his time with the Dragons, Price enjoyed senior rugby experience with Ebbw Vale RFC and most notably, Cross Keys RFC.
On joining Pooler, Price said: "Pontypool RFC has a fantastic history. It's a club you want to play for and I hope to play an important part in any of its achievements in the near future. The club's fan base is easily one of the best in Welsh club rugby and I can't wait to play in front of them. I hail from Cwmbran and my family and friends have always wanted to see me play for the club.
"I played with Lewis Ball and Duan Thomas in age-grade rugby. I was also fortunate enough, earlier in my career, to receive help from Lloyd Lewis, Scott Matthews and Ieuan Jones. So to play alongside them again will be exciting and hugely beneficial.”
The strength of the club's back-row options has been a constant trait throughout Leighton Jones' tenure at Pontypool Park. However, with Craig Attwell, Rob Nash and Brendan Lampitt departing the club this summer, an injection of youth was always going to be welcome.
"Garin is an exciting prospect and will hopefully be with the club for many years," said head coach, Leighton Jones. “He is agile, powerful and isn't found wanting in attack or defence. He is a big ball carrier and possesses an abrasive running style. In short, he should fit in perfectly with our current crop of forwards.
"Despite being just 21 years of age, he already possesses significant Premiership experience. That, coupled with his experiences with the Dragons - which saw him come up against the likes of Leinster, Ulster and the Scarlets in the Celtic Cup - means he has already benefitted from invaluable experiences. We look forward to seeing the benefits of that in the season ahead.”
