Turner excited to be part of future

Jan 24 2008 by Simon Thomas, Western Mail

PAUL TURNER last night revealed his delight after finalising a deal to stay on as Dragons coach.

The former Wales fly-half, who has been in charge at Rodney Parade since 2005, has agreed a two-year contract extension that will take him through to May 2010.

“I am proud of what we are doing here at the Dragons and representing the area I grew up in,” said the ex-Newport and Newbridge playmaker.

“The coaching team and myself have worked hard to develop local talent and I am glad that I have been given the opportunity to continue this development.

“I am aware of the financial constraints we face, but we are developing plans to blend our exciting, emerging talent with some experience in order that we can continue to grow as we head to the new stadium.

“These are exciting and opportune times for the Dragons and I am delighted to be a part of it.”

The region’s chief executive, Gethin Jenkins said he was pleased that Turner had agreed to stay on board.

“This will allow us to build on the strong foundations laid by the coaches, players, staff and directors here in recent years,” he said.

“We have discussed at length what we are trying to achieve and Paul understands the financial position we have to work within. This is especially in light of the exciting regeneration project the ground will undertake in the next two years.

“We will now work with Paul to retain and recruit new players as we build on these plans and head towards the new stadium.

“I thank Paul and his team for their work so far in developing the squad and providing the opportunities for Welsh talent to emerge. I trust that this development will continue as we plan and build towards the new stadium.”