By Steffan Thomas
Dean Ryan insists there is plenty of untapped potential at the Dragons but has warned they won’t move forward without increased investment.
Former Gloucester and Worcester boss Ryan was appointed director of rugby at Rodney Parade last summer following the sacking of his predecessor Bernard Jackman.
The Dragons have more often than not been the poor relations to the other Welsh regions but Ryan is desperate to reverse that particular trend.
“I think for the Dragons to move forward it requires a lot more investment in the foundations of the region,” said Ryan.
“It requires more investment in developing the players’ support networks so that talented young players can transition into Pro 14 level players, and potentially international class players, a lot easier. We’ve had to suck the available funding into getting a side out.
“You can’t just jump across – you have to develop and create environments. You need people to keep learning.
“We’ve not done that particularly well, through challenges of resources and focussing on other areas. It’s something I’m keen to address.”
Dean Ryan has revealed that Pool 1 table-toppers @dragonsrugby “cannot wait” for the #ChallengeCupRugby rematch with @WorcsWarriors at Rodney Parade on Friday
️ “I am so proud about how we performed in incredible circumstances.” https://t.co/qB2UoPzi5n
— Challenge Cup (@ERChallengeCup) December 9, 2019
Dai Sport understands the Dragons’ budget will rise next season with the Professional Rugby Board (PRB) currently in discussions over next season’s distribution. And Ryan hopes he will have more money to invest in his squad.
“Having plans is one thing, having the money come in from somewhere is another,” added Ryan.
“We’re fully engaged in discussions with the Union and how the distribution of revenue will be because, clearly, it’s been a challenge for us in the past. We’ve not been strong enough in that area.
“I think current conversations are very much involving the Dragons and their view of what it will require to take the Dragons forward.
“We’re dealing with it the way it’s been dealt with at the moment which makes it unfair for a young player because they haven’t got the competitive environment that fosters good international behaviours. Therefore, we’re not serving those players as well as we could.
“I’ve been surprised by the quality of people’s understanding of the game. There are so many other areas which have been untapped that are key components to playing the game at the highest level. It’s an area we as a region have to improve on.”
