RHYL and District Rugby Club have announced their new captain for the upcoming season.

The Dragons are expected to be among the leading contenders for the Specsavers National League Division Two North crown once again when it is safe to start the campaign in the current climate, and club officials confirmed that Jason Blackmore will skipper the side going forward.

Blackmore started his career at the club aged six within their youth system, which lasted until U14 level and involved selection to the North Wales regional age grade sides during this time.

The player then opted to try his hand at Rugby League with Warrington Wolves over a two-year period, before making a return to the Dragons’ youth side where he was part of a squad that won multiple trophies.

Blackmore also spent time with Widnes Vikings in the league format on his way to national recognition with the Wales U18, 16, and student sides. A devastating injury significantly hampered his development, forcing the players.

He was also involved during the early stages of RGC 1404’s progression through the pyramid, and he made his debut for Rhyl and District aged 18 under current head coach Jimmy Waring.

The forward played a significant part in the side’s success last season, where they led the standings for long periods and were in with a shout of promotion in second spot before the Welsh Rugby Union opted to cancel the season due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Blackmore, said: “Unfortunately I picked up a nasty injury playing for Wales against Australia which ruled me out of the game for two years before returning back to my beloved Rhyl, where my family has strong connections with the club.

“My dad was coach here for many years and is still regarded as one of the best coaches Rhyl has ever had.

“My big brother Dale who now coaches the forwards holds the record number of years as captain here at Rhyl. This is something I intend to take off him.

“We now have the best coaching team here for years along with a very able and young team my aim is to lead us back to the top of North Wales rugby.”