The return of Shellard to the club where he initially made his mark at senior level back in 2004 gives an indication that Ponty will be proactive in defending its status as Premiership Champions.
This will be a real homecoming for the 27-year-old Aberdare born flanker, whose father Mike and uncle Dai were also Pontypridd stalwarts in their day.
Shellard rose through the ranks of the Celtic Warriors and Blues Academies, becoming a regular in the Pontypridd senior team from 2004 to 2008, during which time he made 89 club appearances. He had in the meantime been capped by and captained Wales at Youth and Under 21 level.
Released from the Blues Academy in 2008, Shellard joined up with Cardiff and became a regular in the senior Wales Sevens squad which he also captained.
Shellard now returns to Pontypridd as a player still in his prime and with a wealth of experience at club, regional and international level behind him. His dynamic style of play and his commitment to lead from the front will provide a huge boost to the club as it faces the challenges of another season.
Shellard will be dually contracted with Pontypridd and Wales Sevens.
