Scarlets secure front row signings at Parc y Scarlets

The Scarlets have secured new contracts with two key front row players – experienced Prop Phil John and hooker Emyr Phillips.

Phillips, 25, one of the rising stars in recent seasons in a Scarlets shirt, has 63 appearances to his name already and signs up for another three seasons at Parc y Scarlets.

Home-grown Scarlets talent Phillips has developed through the ranks at Llandovery and has been a firm favourite at the Scarlets since joining the region at 18 in 2008.He made his debut in a league match against Ulster in May 2009.

Head Coach Simon Easterby said it was important to secure experience in the pack and continue their investment in key players from the region like Phillips as they stride forward in their rugby careers.

Easterby said: “Emyr is a key part of our future and has proved himself to be an excellent professional when handed opportunities in recent years. He is progressing quickly and will flourish given the competition that still exists in our squad at hooker.

“He has worked hard, been patient for opportunities at times and shown his commitment to the region when handed his chances. He has the determination and ability to really push on from here and we are pleased to have signed him for another three years at what is a key point in his career.

Phillips who was born in Llandovery and has a degree in Sport and PE from UWIC, said he was pleased to have secured another three seasons at his region.

He said: “I am delighted to have extended my contract at Parc y Scarlets and the exciting opportunity to be part of a group that has the ambition and drive to push forward.

“We have a strong mix of international quality, new talent and experience in this squad and we’re all working hard as we can to achieve the success our supporters deserve. There are exciting times ahead.”

Phillips, who knows he has the presence of former Wales U20 captain Kirby Myhill on his heels at the region as well said: “There’s always been a lot of competition at hooker in this region and that’s always good as we are all pushing each other.”

And it’s welcome news for Scarlets loosehead prop Phil John who last week became the newest member of an elite group of players in Llanelli RFC and Scarlets history to be honoured asPlaying Life Members with 250 appearances to his name.

Phil John joins some of the region’s greats including Ray Gravell (480 appearances), current Scarlets President Phil Bennett (403), current Scarlets team manager Garan Evans (343), Wales’ record cap holder Stephen Jones (314) and former coaches Nigel Davies (397), Phil Davies (329) and Gareth Jenkins (254).

His experience, commitment to the Scarlets region and strong performances this season are rewarded with a new two-year deal at Parc y Scarlets.

Simon Easterby said: “Phil has been outstanding for us this season and working with Danny (Wilson) has brought a real focus to his work in the scrum. He was celebrated for reaching 250 appearances against Clermont last weekend and with more than 13 years service for Llanelli and the Scarlets, is an example of the loyalty this club engenders in its players.

“As a region we are grateful for all he has committed during this time and for the level of performance he has brought to the Scarlets jersey this season in particular.”

John made his debut for Llanelli on the 8thDecember, 1999 against Welsh rivals Cardiff after joining the region as an apprenctice – combining training with work in the community as a development officer. John’s interest in rugby began with New Dock Stars Under 12’s. Whilst with the Scarlets John also made appearances for Llandovery and Narberth.