Wing Ashton Hewitt is relishing the challenge of forcing his way back into the starting line-up at Dragons RFC – as the speedster prepares to put 16 months on the sidelines firmly behind him.
Hewitt was last in action in April 2021 when he scored a brace of tries in the EPCR Challenge Cup clash Northampton Saints.
After suffering a knee injury scoring his second that day at Rodney Parade, it has been a long road to recovery for the popular back.
But now as pre-season and the new United Rugby Championship campaign grows ever closer, the 27-year-old is ready to finally make his return.
“I’m feeling good, running with the physios and just ensuring ensure I don’t overdo it,” said Hewitt, who has scored 33 tries in 103 games for the club.
“There are no doubts in my mind I can come back and reach the same level as before.
“Everything is measured in training – speed, strength, skills – and I’m confident I can get back to where I was.
“I will start with getting into the Dragons team, helping them and taking things from there.
“Competition is what builds performances and pushes everyone to be better - and there are lots of good wings at the club.
“That competitiveness is good for the individuals and the squad as a whole. I know I must put my hand up to get into the team and then maintain my standards to stay there week in, week out.
“I know the players here aren’t going to make it easy for me, but I’m looking forward to the battle.”
Dragons will continue preparations for the new season next week in Ireland before it all kicks off with a pre-season clash against Bristol Bears at Rodney Parade next Friday (August 26).
And Newport-born Hewitt is excited for what lies ahead for a new-look Dragons RFC squad.
“I am always an optimist, but this year feels different – this is going to be a turning point season for the Dragons,” he said. “There is a freshness about the squad.
“If you look at the quality and experience, we’ve added to the squad, and the youngsters coming through, we’ve got a strong squad.
“We’ve had a good pre-season, and everyone is looking to impress the new Head Coach Dai Flanagan.
“I’m in training, although I had a small issue with my hamstring last week, and I’m going to train through the week off for the players.
“Hopefully I’ll be back with the squad this week and can put my hand up for the first or second game of the season.”
Watch Dragons RFC in the pre-season opener with Bristol Bears at Rodney Parade on Friday, August 26 (kick-off 7pm).
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Competitiveness is good for the individuals and the squad as a whole... I know I must put my hand up to get into the team and then maintain my standards to stay there week in, week out...
