Aaron Wainwright is set for an emotional farewell at Rodney Parade this Saturday, as the Wales number eight prepares to play his penultimate game for the Dragons against Edinburgh in the United Rugby Championship (URC). It marks the end of an era for a player who has become synonymous with the club's identity.
The 28-year-old's matchday routine is a familiar one: a drive from his Rogerstone home, parking at Maindee Primary School, grabbing a coffee from a nearby shop along the banks of the River Usk, and then a leisurely stroll to the home changing room. After 136 appearances for the Dragons, this familiar path will be walked for the last time in front of the Newport faithful.
"There's nothing like going to Rodney Parade and seeing the terrace and the stands full of fans," Wainwright said. "I don't normally get too emotional, I suppose we will have to wait and see, but I have been here my whole career."
The back-rower's journey from a promising debutant to a talismanic figure has been remarkable. From scoring his first try against Russian side Enisei-STM in just his ninth game to becoming the player fans most want a selfie with—alongside wing Rio Dyer—Wainwright has grown into the heart and soul of the Dragons.
While the club has faced its share of challenges, Wainwright cherishes the highs: the derby victories, the electric atmosphere, and most importantly, the connection with supporters. "The thing that I will remember the most is just being able to connect and cheer with the fans after the games. Especially the guys on the terrace, they have stuck with us for so long and they've been awesome," he reflected.
With a summer move to Leicester Tigers on the horizon, Wainwright is focused on giving the Dragons faithful one last memory. After Saturday's home fixture, he'll aim to sign off with a victory at Scarlets before heading to the historic Welford Road. "I've got to concentrate on going out there and giving the fans something to shout and cheer about. Let's get Rodney Parade bouncing and get a win," he added.
For a player who has worn the Dragons jersey with pride through thick and thin, this weekend represents not just a game, but a celebration of a career built on passion, resilience, and an unbreakable bond with a rugby community that will never forget him.