Academy trio step up to pro deals

• 14 Mar 2023
• News

Edinburgh Rugby academy trio Harry Paterson (full-back), Cammy Scott (stand-off/centre) and Mikey Jones (loosehead) have today agreed terms on their first professional deals with Edinburgh Rugby.

All three players graduate to full-time contracts with the club’s senior squad having progressed through the FOSROC Scottish Rugby Academy system, as well as the capital side’s stage three academy, led by Academy Coach Rob Chrystie.

Paterson made his professional debut against Ulster aged 19 in June 2021, becoming Edinburgh Rugby player #1297, while Scott made his first appearance for the club in October last year, coming off the bench in the away victory against Cardiff Rugby to become player #1317 for his hometown team.

Jones has yet to make his mark for the capital club but the loosehead has impressed coming through the ranks at Boroughmuir RFC, as well as in the FOSROC Super6, where he has featured up front for Heriot’s Rugby.

Head Coach Mike Blair, said: “We’re delighted to see Harry, Cammy and Mikey all step up to the senior squad and pen pro deals. They are three hugely self-driven players who’ve worked tirelessly to progress to the next level – full credit to them for earning full-time contracts.

“It’s really exciting to see local guys come through the system and pull on the jersey for the first time. We believe all three players have a massive future at the club and they are a great example for the next generation joining Rob [Chrystie] and our stage-three academy set-up in Edinburgh.”

Paterson, a rangy fullback, displayed his potential with a string of impressive performances for Watsonians in their title-winning FOSROC Super6 and Sprint Series campaigns.

Paterson then stepped up to the professional game, coming into the Edinburgh side at the last minute in both 1872 Cup clashes in December, before putting in an assured display in January’s home victory against Zebre Parma.

On signing his first pro deal, Paterson said: ‘I’m absolutely delighted to sign my first pro contract with Edinburgh.

“In many ways, it’s a real dream come true considering I’ve lived here all my life. I’m looking forward to cracking on with the boys – I love the club.”

Scott made his debut for his boyhood club in October’s away victory at Cardiff Arms Park.

A former ball boy for the capital side, the Boroughmuir product also featured in December’s 1872 Cup away leg, before making his Heineken Champions Cup debut in January’s decisive victory at Castres Olympique.

Equally adept at stand-off or centre, the versatile playmaker is currently on loan at London Scottish, gaining valuable experience in the English Championship.

Scott said: “I’m absolutely over the moon to sign my first pro deal with Edinburgh. This is something I’ve wanted to achieve ever since I started playing rugby – to progress through the academy ranks, sign professionally and represent Edinburgh is a great feeling.

“The whole experience was incredible and surreal to finally pull on the Edinburgh jersey. To make my debut for my childhood club and play against Glasgow Warriors in such an historic 1872 Cup game was an unreal experience.

“The intensity and excitement of the game was incredible and to play with, and against, some great players too.  My family came to the game and were so proud to see me run on the pitch. It’s a memory I will cherish forever.

“Having quality and experienced players around you like Mark Bennett is perfect for young lads to learn from. You try and soak up as much as you possibly can, taking in all the information.

“Every day is different and a real learning experience. There is a good sense of natural competition which keeps pushing me on, to develop and be the best player I can possibly be.”

Jones started his rugby career at Lasswade RFC aged five. He attended Lasswade High School and completed his senior schooling at Stewart’s Melville, where he was Player of the Match in the 2019 U18 Schools Cup Final.

The loosehead prop made his Scotland U20 debut in the opening round of the 2021 Six Nations, having represented his country through the age grades. Jones has also shown his mettle in senior rugby, both for Heriot’s in the FOSROC Super6, and recently on loan with Ampthill in the English Championship.

On his pro deal, Jones said: “I’m really happy to sign for my boyhood club and I’m looking forward to being involved in what’s to come.

“I’m excited to continue to take learnings from the experienced players at the club, especially from Pierre Schoeman and Boan Venter as I look to break into the first team.”