We are pleased to share the news that effective immediately, Clare Jones has been named Celtic Dragons Vice-Captain for the remainder of the 2021 season and that Laura Rudland will also be joining the on-court leadership group. Along with Captain Rebekah Robinson and leadership group member Abby Tyrrell, they will be leading the team into the second half of the season.
Welsh international Jones has been winning plaudits from across the netball sorority for her performances this season, demonstrating relentless positivity to go with her impressive interception stats. Likewise former Team Bath and Severn Stars wing-attack Laura Rudland has been in integral part of Dragons attack in 2021 and it was great to see her back from injury in the last game.
Speaking about being named Vice-Captain, Jones said: “Whilst I acknowledge the decision was made under difficult circumstances, I am thrilled to step-up as Vice-Captain. It’s no secret how passionate I am not only for the franchise but for the group of girls I’m fortunate to call my team-mates this season.
“I’m looking forward to continuing to work with our ever so supportive leadership group and building with the squad. Diolch pawb for your support so far – London here we come!”
Director of Netball, Tania Hoffman was full of praise for both Jones and Rudland. She said: “I’m pleased to have Clare and Laura take on formal roles as part of our leadership group. We have had to be resilient this year and these two players have exemplified that positivity on court.
“Along with Rebekah and Abby, we have a fantastic core of leaders here who can help push us on and inspire our continued growth as a group in 2021.”
This weekend will be a bye-week in the Superleague as teams prepare for a new venue in London for the second half of the season. Dragons’ next fixture is against impressive league-leaders Team Bath on Sunday 25 April at midday. As ever, all games can be viewed live and for free via the Sky Sports YouTube channel.
