Former Griquas coach joins Edinburgh

NEWS: South African coach Scott Mathie will join Edinburgh as their new attack and backs coach.

Edinburgh confirmed the appointment of the 41-year-old Mathie who joins them from New England Free Jacks on a two-year deal.

Mathie’s rugby journey began in his hometown of Durban where he excelled as a scrumhalf – earning a place in the South Africa U19 squad – before he continued his studies and rugby career at the University of Pretoria.

Mathie’s professional playing career saw him represent the Bulls and Sharks and English clubs Leeds Carnegie and Sale Sharks.

After a successful playing career, Mathie retired in 2013 and transitioned into coaching.

He began his coaching journey at his alma mater, Durban High School, where he combined his passion for rugby with education. His coaching talent was quickly recognised, and he moved on to roles with Durban Collegians Rugby Club and the Sharks’ age-grade programmes, meeting Sean Everitt for the first time.

Mathie’s big break came in 2019 when he joined the coaching staff of the Griquas, eventually becoming Head Coach.

In 2021, he was appointed head coach of the New England Free Jacks.

Mathie joins Edinburgh’s senior coaching team alongside Sean Everitt (Head Coach), Stevie Lawrie (Forwards Coach), Michael Todd (Defence Coach) and Rob Chrystie.

“I’m beyond excited to get started in Edinburgh. It’s a great opportunity to get involved at such a prestigious club in a city that is very close to my heart.

“I’m looking forward to linking up with Sean [Everitt] and his staff and really getting stuck into the work.

“Edinburgh is a city where I spent a lot of time during my playing days. I have friends here, my dad’s side of the family are all Geordies, while my grandfather on my dad’s side was originally from Falkirk.

“So, there’s a lot of support for my family here. It’s going to be great sharing those experiences with them and showing them just how special a country Scotland is.”