PONTYPOOL fan favourite Gareth Rusby-Davies has called time on his playing career but will remain a big part of the furniture at the Gwent outfit.

The back-rower, who received the supporters’ player of the season on the back of Pooler’s WRU National Championship title triumph last term, is the club’s new team manager.

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Gareth to the role of team manager in what I know will be a hugely popular appointment to everybody associated with the club,” said head coach Leighton Jones.

“Gareth embodies everything that Pontypool RFC stands for. His commitment and hunger on the field has earnt him the respect of his team-mates and his passion and respect for the club resonates with our supporters in a very positive way.

“We have gained a team manager who is trustworthy, dependable and fully buys into the culture we have worked hard to establish this past couple of seasons.

“Every season we are improving in every facet of the club’s operations and I have no doubt that Gareth’s introduction will only expand this positive development for many seasons to come.”

Rusby-Davies joined Pontypool from Ebbw Vale in 2015 and became renowned for his fearlessness on the field and dedication to supporting the club from the sidelines.

It was during his most recent spell recovering from injury that Rusby-Davies volunteered to perform team support duties during a crucial spell of matches for the club.

He did enough in that time to claim the role of team manager, one that had been vacant since January, on a permanent basis.

“It is an incredible honour and privilege to become team manager for a club that holds such a special place in my heart,” said Rusby-Davies.

“I have really enjoyed every moment of my playing career, but when Leighton approached me about this new opportunity, I knew that it was the right time for me to take the next step in my rugby journey and I cannot wait to get started.

“It is an incredibly exciting time to be involved with Pontypool RFC and I guarantee that I will bring the same level of energy and excitement that I demonstrated on the field into my professional activities off it.

“I wish to thank my team-mates, coaches, the Pooler Army and especially my family for all the support they have offered me in my playing days and I hope to do them just as proud in this new role.”

Meanwhile, Pooler have signed scrum-half Martin Luckwell from Swansea.

The 29-year-old former Merthyr number nine (pictured below, left) impressed while on permit from the All Whites last season, as Pontypool romped to the Championship trophy.

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“I am really excited about committing my future to Pontypool RFC and making my first appearance last season has made me hungry to experience more game time this season," he said.

“The club’s history and recent successes, combined with the quality of players available in the squad, made signing the right move for me.

“Pooler have a strong culture and a clear vision of how the team intends to achieve their objective to return to the Principality Premiership.

“The professionalism throughout the club has really impressed me and I cannot wait to get to work with my team-mates.”