RGC have suffered a blow with the news that dynamic back Sam Jones has joined Merthyr.

The former Academy graduate officially joined the triple Indigo Premiership champions on Tuesday, ending a long association with the Gogs, with the move seeing Jones move closer to home after notching 19 tries for the club last term.

The pacey winger recovered from his recent injury problems to produce a series of exceptional displays for the Stadiwm Zip World based side over the course of the campaign, with the player also securing the Principality Premiership Try of the Week Award on multiple occasions.

Jones came through the Academy ranks at RGC at Rydal Penrhos School and Bangor University, where he obtained a sports science degree, and the player issued an emotional statement via the RGC website when the move was confirmed.

He said: “RGC has been a big part of my life from when I left home at 16 to join the Academy, study at Rydal Penrhos school and following on from that studying at Bangor University.

“But after graduating it has become increasing difficult with the travelling from my home in Llanidloes to Colwyn Bay with a four-hour round trip to training and home games.

“It’s been a privilege to play for RGC senior team over the past 4 seasons and 3 years previous to that in the age grade setup.

“There have been many highs and lows throughout my time in North Wales including some injury problems which have prevented me from playing as many games as I would of liked to but the highs have included Promotion to the Premiership, winning the National Cup as well as playing against the Welsh National squad.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone, all the players and all the coaches and staff that have helped me in my development as a player.

“Also, a big thanks to all the RGC fans who travel up and down the country to support us on a weekly basis.

“I am looking forward to see what the next chapter holds for myself and I wish all the RGC boys the best for the upcoming season and the future.”