Captain Morgan

A new season, following a long break from action, inevitably signals a watershed moment and a fresh start for Pontypridd RFC, which is reflected in the announcement of a new squad captain and vice-captain.

The decision by club icon Dafydd Lockyer to stand down from his playing duties meant that the captain’s armband had to be passed on, and the Ponty coaches were swift in their response to that situation.

The ultimate honour has now been bestowed upon Morgan Sieniawski, who has returned to the Pontypridd squad following a spell away with the Wales Sevens set-up, with Kristian Parker nominated as his deputy.

Reacting to his appointment as club captain, Morgan Sieniawski said: “I grew up supporting Ponty, I was a team mascot as a kid, and to be given the captaincy is a massive honour.

“Taking over from Daf Lockyer I know I have some big shoes to fill and will face a huge challenge at a young age, but I have experienced players such as Chris Dicomidis and Rhys Shellard around me, who I know will be a big help and will give me confidence.

“When the coaches approached me and offered me the captaincy, I didn’t have to think too long about it, it’s a role that I will relish.”

Stepping up to the vice-captaincy is experienced back rower Kristian Parker, who was nominated as Ponty Player of the Year in 2020, and who Sieniawski welcomes as his co-leader.

“Kris is not only a very good player” said Sieniawski “but a good leader, he sets an example on the field of play and is a talker and motivator in the changing room. It will be good for me to have his backing as my vice-captain.”

A new season, a new beginning, and a new leadership on the field of play – there could be exciting times ahead for Pontypridd RFC as Captain Morgan takes the helm.