THEO PIJPER TO MOVE ON

NEWS Sunday 1st December 2013, 12:48pm

by Mike Hunter

  Edinburgh Monarchs

The Scotwaste Monarchs have told Theo Pijper that he won’t be in their side for the 2014 season, and so the Dutchman who first rode for us in 2002 will be looking for another club.

It was obviously with considerable regret that Monarchs have taken this step, but under the rules no club can have every rider they would like even from amongst their own assets.

Theo said this morning “The important thing for me was that the club were able to tell me one way or another, and I’m grateful that they have, it was becoming a bit worrying.

“I’ll need to sit down now and work out what my plans will be for the new season. At the moment I am not doing the Longtrack, I would like to get a wildcard in that but because I rode for Edinburgh at Workington rather than doing the Long Track Challenge at the end of last year, that might count against me.

“I am sure we will still be along at Armadale on Friday nights.”

Theo Pijper has ridden 8 seasons in Monarchs’ colours and after last year had moved up to twelfth place in our all-time scorers list. He captained the club in 2005 and 2006, so he has played a huge part in the club’s recent history, including being part of the 2003 league winning team.

Although it has still to be verified, he may well be granted a Testimonial in 2014 and the club have told him he can have his meeting at Armadale if he wishes.

At the moment only two signings have been announced for the Monarchs’ team next season, Craig Cook and Steve Worrall.