Kristian Dacey will surpass a decade at Cardiff Blues after penning a new long-term contract to remain with his home region.
The Wales international made his regional debut in 2010, after making a late switch from the back-row to hooker and has gone on to make 149 appearances. He has scored more tries than any other forward in the region’s history with 25.
Dacey is currently club captain having been handed the responsibility following Ellis Jenkins’ season-ending injury and is delighted to commit his long-term future to Wales’ Capital Region.
Dacey, 29, said: “I’m really pleased to be staying here at Cardiff Blues. I’ve been here eight years now, this is the club that gave me a chance and it is nice to be able to repay that loyalty.
“There was interest from elsewhere, but this is my home, this is where I want to stay, my family are happy and settled here and my boy’s recently started school, so it was an easy decision to make.
“It’s been a massive honour to be made captain, especially when you look at some of the captains that have gone before like Gethin Jenkins and Martyn Williams and the quality of the leaders here like Nick Williams, Gareth Anscombe and Ellis Jenkins, who is obviously out at the moment. There was never any doubt in my mind when I was asked.”
Dacey played an integral role in last year’s European Challenge Cup triumph, featuring in six of the matches including every minute of the final. He believes that journey points to the potential at Cardiff Arms Park and he insists the Blues can secure more silverware in the years ahead.
He added: “Last year proved a lot - we were written off at the start of the season but as a group we came together and ended up winning the Challenge Cup. There is no reason why we can’t win something again even this season.
“If we can perform consistently, week in, week out there is no reason why more silverware won’t follow.
“We have a massive few weeks ahead and are determined to do whatever it takes to secure a play-off place and qualify again for the Heineken Champions Cup.”
Dacey is the latest player to sign a new deal at Cardiff Arms Park, following on from the likes of Josh Navidi, Jarrod Evans and Willis Halaholo.
Cardiff Blues head coach John Mulvihill was pleased to secure the services of another important member of the squad as he builds for the future in the Welsh capital.
He said: “It's very important within our team environment that the younger players coming through have very good experienced players around them.
“Kristian is one of our leaders both on and off got field and his value to us within the group is enormous.
“He is an excellent role model and still has the desire and skill set to play international rugby in the future. He thrives in the contest, is a big carrier and creates momentum for us.
“I feel that Kristian’s best rugby is still in front of him and we look forward to his continued impact at the Cardiff Blues both on and off the field.”