FORMER Loretto School pupil Nathan Sweeney is targeting a “bounceback season” after penning a one-year contract extension with Edinburgh Rugby.

The back-three flyer has missed the majority of the 2023/24 campaign due to a series of injuries, starting with a hamstring strain ahead of October’s BKT United Rugby Championship Round One victory over Dragons RFC.

However, having worked tirelessly to get back to full fitness, Sweeney is in line to return to training next month, ahead of the start of pre-season and the build-up to a new season.

The 23-year-old said: “I’m absolutely buzzing to be staying on at Edinburgh Rugby for another season.

“It’s been a tough year with the injury but I’m focused on getting back to full fitness and making a real impact next season.

“This new deal is a huge motivator for me. I’ve been working hard in rehab and I’m determined to repay the faith the coaches have shown in me.

“I can’t wait to get back out there in an Edinburgh jersey.

“While it’s been frustrating to be on the sidelines, it’s only fuelled my hunger to get back on the pitch.

“I’m targeting a big bounceback season and I’m excited to see what I can achieve.”

Sweeney, who signed the new deal on Tuesday, spent much of his childhood growing up in Horsham and Hong Kong where his rugby journey began.

He moved back to Scotland to finish school at Musselburgh’s Loretto School where he played alongside friend and current teammate Ben Muncaster, of North Berwick.

Sweeney was soon involved at Scottish age-grade level, representing his country from under-17 to under-19.

Accomplished performances at club and age-grade level then saw Sweeney join the Edinburgh Rugby academy ahead of the 2019/20 season.

Sweeney then made his professional debut for the club against Connacht in March last year.

Sean Everitt, head coach of the capital club, said: “We’re delighted to have re-signed Nathan for another season.

“He’s a talented back-three player who has a lot to offer the team.

“This new contract is a testament to Nathan’s hard work and determination.

“We’re confident he can return from injury and be a crucial member of the squad next season.”