Welsh Rugby Players Association role for Ryan Jones

David Skippers

Former Welsh Rugby International Ryan Jonessigns an autograph for pupil Sophie Maddick, next to the Webb Ellis Cup during a Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour visit to Ysgol Pen-Y-Bryn special school in Swansea on day 20 of the 100 day Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour of the UK & Ireland. Tickets for the Tournament, which starts on September 18, are on sale now at . Picture date: Tuesday July 30 2015. Picture by Chris Radburn/Press Association for England Rugby 2015."

Former Wales skipper and back-row Ryan Jones has joined the Welsh Rugby Players Association (WRPA) as a non-executive member.

The 39-year-old, most recently the Welsh Rugby Union’s performance director, has become the latest in an influx of high-profile appointments by the WRPA, following last week’s announcement that commercial supremo Chris Brindley MBE had also joined.

Jones won 75 caps for Wales (33 as captain), won three Grand Slams and represented the British & Irish Lions. He also captained the Ospreys between 2007-2010, winning four PRO12 titles and played 150 times for his region.

On joining the WRPA non-executive, Jones said: “It’s a great time to get involved with the WRPA. They have made really positive progress recently and have done some incredible work representing their members in a difficult time. It is evident they are becoming a very influential and professional association.

“They have a clear plan of where they are heading, and I hope my own experiences of the game can help them in this journey. Player welfare and player representation is crucial, and I am confident they will continue to drive forward in these areas.

Wants to give back

“I want to give back to the game that has given so much to me, and I am determined to help players currently playing but also those transitioning out of the game.”

On the appointment, WRPA chairman and Ospreys forward James King said: “As a former teammate of Ryan, I know first-hand the level of energy and determination he brings. It is essential we have the breadth of knowledge that Ryan has both on and off the pitch in our association.

“I have absolutely no doubt that he will add huge value and will ensure that the players’ voice is heard on all important issues affecting our game.”

Barry Cawte, WRPA chief executive, said: “We are honoured to have a former player of Ryan’s standing giving up his time to help us. His achievements speak for themselves. He also has a unique understanding of the administration of the game, which will add significant value to the work we do.

“This appointment represents a significant step forward for us as an association. We want to ensure world-class representation is given to our members and having world-class people in our association is essential to delivering that.”