Kyle Traynor admits he has been incredibly pleased with the progress he has made during his rookie season as a professional; resulting in the young prop landing the ‘Newcomer of the Year’ award.
The National Academy graduate, 23, earned his first contract with the Black and Red Army almost 12 months ago and cited his original objectives as being to sample some first team action, a Heineken Cup outing and involvement with Scotland ‘A’.
Now a year on, Traynor chalked up 12 appearances, including his first starts in both the Magners League and Heineken Cup, for Edinburgh plus a substitute outing for Scotland ‘A’ against Italy ‘A’ in Perth; something he is proud of.
Remember Kyle is on board for next season and you can join him in a record-breaking team by signing up for an 09/10 Edinburgh Season Ticket. Enjoy top-class rugby at a great value price by calling 0131 346 5180.
Traynor said: “It is obviously nice to get a bit of recognition. It is something you don’t always get in professional sport, so it is nice to get it; I’m very happy with that.
“I can’t wait to get back into it with Edinburgh again next season. I worked hard after the Leinster away match in September when I didn’t get picked for a wee while.
“It was a tough period. I trained hard and put a lot in at that time because I was frustrated. So when I did get my opportunity I was really hungry and determined to do well; I think that showed in my performances.
“I still don’t think I’m the finished article yet; I know I’ve got a long way to go if I want to keep my place in the team.
“But I feel as if I am heading in the right direction. I just need to carry on working hard and keep my head down.
“I’m happy to have achieved what I set out to achieve. I think it is good to set yourself targets, but they have also got to be realistic.
“I thought I set my stall out with some quite ambitious targets – I wanted to start a game, play in the Heineken Cup and get involved with Scotland ‘A’ – but I backed myself and, after working hard, managed to achieve it all.”
After enjoying such a ground-breaking debut year, Traynor says he has yet to revise his set of goals for next year.
But, after being selected for Scotland ‘A’ for next month’s IRB Nations Cup in Romania, he is keen to keep the momentum going.
He added: “Looking ahead to next year, I’ve not really thought about that much yet. I’m just looking to get Romania out of the way.
“But my main goal is to help Edinburgh win the Magners League. Over the last few weeks, I am increasingly confident we can equal or if not better what we achieved as a team this season.”