Triple title holders Neath shot back to the top of the table last month after wins over Glamorgan Wanderers and Maesteg plus a draw with Llanelli. Backs Coach Gruff Rees does not underestimate the influence of the Hereford-born 28-year-old.
“Gareth has been outstanding in recent months and this recognition is due reward for all the hard work he has put into developing his game,” said Rees. “His performances have not only highlighted his abilities as a strike runner but, pleasingly, have also shown some fine control and decision making during some tough challenges.”
King added: “Thanks to the guidance of the Neath coaching team, I feel my game has improved since joining the club from Carmarthen Quins at the start of last season. Things are going well for us at the moment so providing we continue to work hard, we hope the results will keep coming.”
King was chosen as Player of the Month by a WRU Elite Performance Panel and will receive £100 in a Principality account from the Premiership’s title sponsors. He is the second Neath player to receive the award this season after flanker James Merriman lifted the first title in September, another successful month for the Welsh All Blacks on the field.
Fiona Jones, Manager of Neath branch of Principality, said: “Congratulations to fullback, Gareth King, on winning January’s player of the month award. The team have had a fantastic run of results and we hope that their success continues in the coming months.
“Principality Building Society prides itself on being at the heart of the local community, much in the same way as rugby clubs up and down the country. We are delighted to be able to support our local heroes in this way.”
Gareth King Factfile
Born: 16/08/79
Place of Birth: Hereford
Club: Neath
Position: Fullback
Nickname: Kingy
Other sports played: Golf & Fishing
Players most admired: Christian Cullen and Serge Blanco
Sportsman most admired: Tiger Woods
Biggest impact on rugby career: His Dad
Occupation: Plasterer
Unusual Fact: He has a webbed toe
