**Captaincy Announcement**

After seven years at the helm, Captain Marvel Scott Jones has decided that it is time to stand down. Scott, who’s Dairy Field career started a quarter of a century ago, with Llanharan under 8’s, has been arguably the club’s most successful ever captain. An accomplished outside half, and lethal goal kicker, there is no doubt Scott could have plied his trade at a higher level, however fortunately for us, he is black and blue through and through.

Having progressed through the age groups at his hometown club, Scott followed in the footsteps of his father Kevin, progressing into senior rugby, initially with the second team, and soon enough the firsts. As Scott was cutting his teeth in first team rugby, Llanharan were enduring a difficult period. Scott became first team captain in the 2017/18 season and led the team with aplomb through a couple of difficult seasons. However, the arrival of new coaching team Gareth Nicholas, and Andy Price would bring joy and success back to the Dairy Field. In fairness, the new coaching duo quickly realised that Scott was the ideal man to continue to steer the ship, as captain.

As the village slowly emerged from the long shadow of Covid, Scott led the team to two victorious Principality Cup Finals, back-to-back league titles and promotions, and the ever-elusive Silver Ball. Last season, Scott made his 250th senior appearance for the Dairymen, as they more than held their own, in Division 1 East-Central. During this period Scott has also successfully represented the South Wales Police team which has won four successive National Cups, as vice-captain, as well as Wales police, who he helped lift the Four Nations Police Championship in 2023/24. He has also made eight appearances for the British Police team.

The good news is, that despite no longer captaining the team, Scott is nowhere near ready to hang up his boots and will continue to give his all for the Dairymen. I am sure we will all join Scott in wishing every success to new captain Ieuan Pring, who steps up from vice-captain, and his new deputy, granite-like centre Jack Brooks.

Thank you for everything Scott.

(worded by Gareth Morgan & info by Phil Hearne)