EBBW Vale captain Ashley Sweet is leaving Eugene Cross Park for a new challenge and is being joined out of the exit by fellow forwards Cameron Regan and Rhys Francis.
The trio helped the Steelmen to a strong position in their battle against the drop from the Premiership before the Welsh Rugby Union cancelled their competitions because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The second row will have a strange look to it next time Ebbw take to the field without the towering presence of Sweet, who has spent 10 seasons with the club.
The 31-year-old was a leading figure in the Steelmen’s recovery from Premiership relegation in 2010, helping them to titles in Division One East, the Championship and the top flight.
Sweet, who formed a formidable partnership with Damien Hudd, earned a contract with the Dragons thanks to his exploits.
He was appointed as skipper last summer and was closing in on 250 games but will now head to pastures new.
"Ten years ago I had the pleasure of joining a giant force in Welsh rugby with an aim of gaining promotion to the Premiership," said the forward from Pontypool.
"During the years I have seen players come and go and worked with some outstanding coaches, all giving their absolute all to the cause.
"I feel honoured to have had a small part to play in the success the club has achieved over the years with my biggest memory being winning what we aimed for all those years ago in lifting the Premiership trophy."
Regan is also heading for a new challenge after nine years in the Ebbw back row.
The 27-year-old, a fine lineout operator as well as a grafter around the park, is likely to step down to the divisions after being hindered by injuries.
"I'd just like to thank everyone at Ebbw Vale, the coaches, players, backroom staff and supporters, for the best times of my life,” he said.
"From my first start to winning the league and even the 50-0 against Llandovery, I've enjoyed it all.
"It's a big decision for me to move on but I feel like it's the right one.
"I just need a new challenge and something different to keep my going."
Hooker Francis is taking a break from rugby while waiting for a delayed shoulder operation and then having a period of rehabilitation.
The front rower, who covered in the back row because of injuries last season, is closing in on an Ebbw century and the club hope in time he will return to bring up three figures.
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