The day before heading into his first national training camp ahead of the 2017 Under Armour Series, the 23-year-old put pen to paper to give Bernard Jackman’s side another major boost. Now in his fifth season at Rodney Parade he has signed up for a further three years.
With five tries in six games this season, including to Guinness PRO14 Man of the Match awards, Dee’s form has pushed him into contention for a senior Wales cap as he challenges British & Irish Lions hooker Ken Owens and Cardiff Blues Kristian Dacey for the No 2 jersey.
“It feels great to have hit a bit of form and I am really proud to have signed a new three-year deal for the Dragons. I always wanted to play for the Dragons ever since I came down to Rodney Parade to watch the likes of Rob Sidoli and Tom Willis play,” said Dee.
“I’m from Gwent and I wouldn’t have wanted to sign anywhere else. There are probably a group of 8-10 boys who I have grown up with and played rugby alongside.
“We always say before we go out and play that there is nothing better than going to war with your friends. You can look to your left or your right and you know that they will put in 100%.”
Dee learned his rugby at Newbridge Comprehensive School, Coleg Gwent and Penallta and Newbridge rugby clubs. He won caps at Wales Under 18 and Under 20 levels and played for Pontypool, Cross Keys and Bedwas while earning his spurs in the Dragons Academy.
He went to the 2013 and 2014 Junior World Championships, playing in the 2013 final defeat against England. Of those two squads he is currently playing alongside James Benjamin, Tyler Morgan, Hallam Amos, Angus O’Brien, Jack Dixon, Luke Garrett and Joe Davies at the Dragons.
The 6ft 1in, 16st 9lb hooker is obviously growing under the guidance of former Irish international Jackman and has greatly impressed the new Dragons head coach in the short time they have worked together this season.
“Elliot is one of the hardest trainers I have coached. He strives to get better every day and is passionate about the Dragons and the future of the Region,” said Jackman. “I feel the environment that we are creating at the Dragons can help Elliot fulfil his dream of playing for Wales.”
