PIERRE SCHOEMAN has committed his “long-term future” to Edinburgh, although no specific timeframe for his new contract has been disclosed.
The South African born loose-head prop has become a cult hero since arriving in the Scottish capital in 2018, with fans at the DAM Health Stadium roaring ‘Schooey’ in unison every time he gets his hands on the ball. He has made 81 appearances for the club, and qualified to play for Scotland through the the three-year residency rule last year. He has now accumulated nine caps for his adopted country.
“I’m extremely excited about the new deal with Edinburgh and staying in Scotland,” said the 28-year-old. “My wife and I have bought a house here in the city and we love spending time together in this beautiful country.
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“We love it here. We love the fans, the club, the history and tradition of Scotland and the culture at Edinburgh Rugby. My wife and I have really made Scotland our home. Staying here comes with huge privilege but also huge responsibility to give my best every day, every month, every year.”
Despite his international commitments, Schoeman has still managed to make 16 club appearances so far this season, scoring two tries, picking up back-to-back Player of the Match awards in last month’s home wins against Bath and Zebre Parma at DAM Health Stadium.
“This season especially has been absolutely amazing in Edinburgh,” continued Schoeman. “With our new stadium – which has already been sold out this year – and the atmosphere, which is the best as it’s ever been. It really gives us the feeling of home. It really is our castle.
“The one thing I’ve absolutely loved since arriving in Scotland is building that relationship with the fans. Their love is unconditional and the passion they bring to games is unbelievable – from young lads to families, they always give you that energy you need. The fans have been so great with me since arriving and it’s why you put your body on the line every week.
“The whole management at the club is brilliant too. Working with Mike [Blair] has been great – he’s an exceptional coach – and I’ve got a great relationship with Forwards Coach Stevie Lawrie too. They all add to the culture of the team.
Head Coach Mike Blair added: “We’re absolutely delighted to re-sign Pierre – it’s huge for the club and massive for what we continue to build here at Edinburgh.
“We regard Pierre as one of world rugby’s premier looseheads and I think that’s been more evident than ever in his performances this season. His work rate and ability in the loose are key to the way we play and he’s a real ‘game-changer’ in the sense he can flip momentum with a brilliant piece of play or physicality.
“We love Pierre here and what’s great is that he’s really made Edinburgh his home. He’s embraced Scottish culture from the get-go and that’s showcased in the way he interacts with fans – they see him as one of their own because of the way he plays for the jersey.
“Pierre comes into training every day with a great attitude and adds to the culture of the club too in terms of the standards he sets professionally but also in the way he interacts with new players and younger guys too.
“He makes them feel welcome and part of the team from day one and I’m really looking forward to seeing what Pierre produces in an Edinburgh jersey in the years ahead.”
Schoeman will return to action in next weekend’s 1872 Cup decider against Glasgow Warriors, which will be played inside the international bowl at Murrayfield, with Champions Cup qualification on the line.
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