Back Row boosted by Davidson signing

Sydney University captain Tim Davidson has signed a one-year deal with the NSW Waratahs, bolstering their backrow stocks ahead of the start of the 2007 Super 14 season.

The dual Tooheys New Cup winning skipper impressed after making his Waratah debut against the Brumbies in the opening round of the Australian Provincial Championship, seeing him receive a call up for the Ireland leg of the Waratahs Gulf Air Development Tour.

“One of Tim’s great strengths lies in his versatility,” Waratahs head coach Ewen McKenzie said.

“He can play on the side of the scrum or at number eight, and with his height he provides another option at the lineout.

“His leadership experience is also important – he’s been captain of Sydney University for the past couple of seasons and has also proven himself to be up to the rigours of Super 14.”

Davidson joins the Waratahs full time after spending the 2006 Super 14 season with the Western Force.

“During the APC I wanted to prove myself worthy of a spot and I’m glad this opportunity has come my way now,” Davidson said.

“I definitely wanted to continue in Super 14 after leaving Perth and I’m excited to have been given that opportunity, particularly as I’ll be learning off guys with plenty of experience at state and Test level.

“It’s up to me now to make the most of it.”

24-year old Davidson fills the position left vacant following the departure of Leroy Houston.

Tim Davidson

Position: Flanker/No.8
Physical: 1.94m; 101kg
Born: 03.11.82, Young
Club: Sydney University
Provincial Caps: 10 (5 NSW, 5 WA)
Provincial Points: 5 [1t] (NSW)
Provincial Debut: 2006 v Hurricanes (Force)
Super 14 Caps: 5 (Force)
Super 14 Points: Nil
Super 14 Debut: 2006 v Hurricanes (Force)

Backrower Tim Davidson joins the Waratahs on a one year deal after spending the 2006 Super 14 season with the Western Force. A two-time Tooheys New Cup winning captain with Sydney University, Davidson made his Waratah debut against the Brumbies in the opening round of the 2006 APC and went on to score his debut try two weeks later in the win over his former team. Winner of the 2005 Sydney Morning Herald award for club player of the year, Davidson is big, strong and enormously mobile, and is equally at home at either blindside flanker or number eight.