Pool of talent

12:05pm Wednesday 2nd July 2008

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GARETH Lintern's close ties with the Dragons' academy has enabled him to secure the services of Nathan Preece for another 12 months with two more promising stars also on Pooler's books for next year.

The head coach has formed a special relationship with John Williams at Rodney Parade and it was this which saw Preece first leased out to Pooler midway through the last campaign. Now joining him at Pontypool for the Premiership season are under-18 internationals Stuart Maguire, at tight head prop, and loose head prop Daniel Watchurst.

And managing director Frank Stanton has not shut the door on any more would-be young recruits.

He said: "From my understanding, there's a couple more we are looking at who are fringe players, not just with the academy but the region as well.

"We need some strength in depth up front and in the second row. We've always said that the squad is evolving.

"It's indicative of our openness that we welcome any individuals coming on board."

Stanton continued: "Nathan was last season originally allocated to Cross Keys but they had no space for him - so he came here instead.

"He did a great job for us and we were hopeful that the academy were happy with the situation and would release him again. I take it as a compliment that we have also been allocated a couple more.

"It's important that we look after these players now and help them develop. As a Premiership club, we have a part to play in the region's development.

"We want to put this region back on the map."

Lintern added: "We enjoy a good relationship with John Williams and his staff at the academy and we are committed to doing all we can to help these players reach their potential and become regional players.

"I have worked with all three players, with Dan and Stuart playing for me last season in the Dragons' under-18s squad that made it to the Reebok final. Nathan Preece as we all know played a big part in our success last season."

Preece has already been attending the first pre-season training sessions underway each Tuesday and Thursday evening from 6.30pm at The Park. Maguire and Watchurst are expected along in the next fortnight, according to Stanton.