Will Welch began his career at Newcastle Falcons academy before turning professional in 2009.
He became the Falcons youngest ever club captain in 2012 when, at the age of 22, he took on the leadership role.
Skippering the side to the Championship title in his first season he has since led them in the Premiership, where his tireless work ethic and relentless tackling have marked him as a stand out performer and made a significant contribution to their improvement over recent seasons.
Will has recently joined Bright Red as our new patron, in the hope he can help fight blood cancer for a brighter future.