Rugby: Pike heads for new challenge at Myreside

Published on Tuesday 26 May 2009 10:21

WATSONIANS have bolstered their squad for next season with the signing of former Edinburgh and Rotherham professional Nathan Pike.

The 30-year-old second row, who has also played for Boroughmuir and Edinburgh Accies, believes he has plenty of experience to offer.

"During my career, which I still feel has a bit to run, I've been fortunate to play under some excellent coaches," he said. "At Edinburgh I was coached by Frank Hadden and Todd Blackadder while my Boroughmuir days coincided with Iain Paxton and Sean Lineen being in charge.

"Others, like Phil Smith and Ian Barnes, have had an influence on my development and in the longer term I'd be keen to enter coaching in taking advantage of a sports science degree," added Pike who makes the switch across the Capital after a fall-out at Accies.

He explained: "I played for Accies up until the match against Watsonians in October when I injured my knee. I managed to get back into the side but then when the home match with Heriot's was cancelled I dropped down to play in the seconds.

"The following week I found myself on the bench for the seconds and didn't think that was fair. Moving to Myreside will present me with a new challenge."

Pike made the last of his 11 appearances for Edinburgh in January 2005.