United Rugby Championship: Dragons sign New Zealander Sio Tomkinson

Dylan Coetzee

Sio Tomkinson of the Highlanders looks for support as Damian de Allende of the Stormers makes the tackle during the 2019 Super Rugby game between the Stormers and the Highlanders at Newlands Rugby Stadium in Cape Town on 25 May 2019 © Shaun Roy/BackpagePix

The Dragons have announced the signing of New Zealander Sio Tomkinson, who will link up with the team at the end of the season.

Tomkinson can play at either centre or wing and has a wide range of skills to add to his overall athleticism.

Exciting signing

The 25-year-old will join the Welsh region from the Highlanders, where he plied his trade for the majority of his career and Dragons boss Dean Ryan is delighted with his new signing.

“We’re really pleased that Sio will be a Dragon from next season,” said Ryan to the Dragons’ official website.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for us to bring over a player with a huge attacking threat and strike power from the southern hemisphere.

“Sio has impressed throughout his time in Super Rugby and he is now excited about a new chapter and making a big impact with us.

“We look forward to welcoming Sio and his family to Wales and to him making Rodney Parade his new home.”

Tomkinson boasts 43 caps for the Highlanders scoring 14 tries after representing New Zealand at schools and U20 levels. The new signing is thrilled with the move and looks forward to linking up with the team.

“I am looking forward to heading over to Wales later in the year to join up with the Dragons,” said Tomkinson.

“Since leaving school, I have been fortunate to be involved in professional rugby and played for two New Zealand teams: The Highlanders and Otago Rugby.

“I have made some great friends and both teams mean a lot to me, but it’s time for a new chapter and I’m excited about taking this opportunity at the Dragons.

“Dean Ryan has spoken to me about the direction the team is moving, and I want to be a part of this.

“I look forward to travelling to Newport later in 2022 to connect with the coaches, players, and the loyal supporters of the Dragons.”

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