Hughes to leave Dragons and pursue American move

Steff Hughes has played 38 games for Dragons since arriving from Scarlets

Dragons centre Steff Hughes will leave in November to take up a player-coach role in Major League Rugby (MLR) in the United States of America.

Hughes will depart by mutual consent in November and link up with Old Glory DC in Washington DC.

The 30-year-old joined from Scarlets in 2022 and was the Dragons' captain for the 2023-24 season.

"It wasn't the easiest decision because I have enjoyed my time here and being part of the club," said Hughes.

"We have had an opportunity overseas and for my partner, myself and our little boy, it is the chance to experience something different, and to continue playing and do a little bit of coaching too.

"At this stage in my career, and as a family, this was an opportunity we couldn't turn down."

'Once in a lifetime opportunity'

Hughes will link up with former Dragons defence coach Simon Cross, who is the head coach at Old Glory DC.

Hughes has thanked Dragons for granting him an early release after he spoke to head coach Dai Flanagan.

"They have been fantastic and very supportive in allowing me to pursue an opportunity that is once in a lifetime," said Hughes.

"I'll leave the club with many fond memories."

Hughes' departure means Dragons will have Harry Wilson, Aneurin Owen, Joe Westwood and Harri Ackerman competing for the centre spots.

"Steff has been a fantastic servant throughout his time with us and leaves with our best wishes for the future," said Flanagan.

"I've been fortunate to work with Steff for more than a decade, with our time at Scarlets and now Dragons, and I have the utmost respect for the way he always conducts himself and plays the game.

"Steff is an excellent professional, a leader, and he leaves a legacy.

"He has helped bring on the likes of Aneurin Owen and Joe Westwood and raised the bar with the way our squad operates off the field."