TRY-MACHINE Marc Teague today fulfilled a long-term ambition by signing for Edinburgh Rugby on a short-term contract.
The 27-year-old Heriot's winger and captain has six months to prove he is ready for extended opportunities at Magner's League and Heineken European Cup level.
The signing means Edinburgh now have a 41-man squad – only two of whom are non-Scottish
qualified.
Speaking of his dream move, Teague, who notched 12 tries in his first eight domestic league starts in 2007-08 then claimed a brace against Wales on the way to becoming Scottish clubs' international player of the season, said: "I'm really pleased to have signed a professional contract with Edinburgh; it is something that I've been trying to do for years.
"It shows everybody that Andy Robinson wants to develop Scottish talent rather than bringing in overseas players.
"That can only be encouraging for the players in Premier One because it shows there is still a chance for them to play professional rugby in Scotland."
Teague becomes the latest player off a Heriot's conveyor belt of professional talent following the likes of Jim Thompson, Steve Turnbull, Fraser McKenzie and Bruce McNeil – all of whom were summer signings at Edinburgh.
Teague added: "I had played with all these boys and seen them earn recognition.
"I thought I had played well over the past four seasons and scored tries.
"But I really wanted to prove my worth in the club international matches earlier on in the year to see how far away I was from the professional scene.
"Now I realise I have to take the next step which is to try and break into the Edinburgh side and that is probably the hardest thing I've ever had to do."
Over the past few seasons, others have trodden a well-worn route between Goldenacre and the professional ranks, including John Houston, Simon Taylor, Gordon Ross, Bruce Douglas, Rory Lawson and Nick De Luca.
Teague said: "I owe a lot to Heriot's. They look to play open rugby and allow players to express themselves."
Robinson said: "Marc has impressed me with his enthusiasm, attitude and professionalism since he started training with the team in pre-season."
Meanwhile, Teague will be stepping down as Heriot's captain with his initial chances at Edinburgh likely to come in an extended series of back-up games.
The full article contains 402 words and appears in Edinburgh Evening News newspaper.
