03 June 2005
London Wasps Rugby Club has secured the services of Waikato prop, David Van Eyk, on a two-year contract. The New Zealander will join up with the English Champions at the end of this month.

After the retirement of Craig Dowd and with fellow front-row forward Will Green moving to Leinster, the club has been in the market for props. Van Eyk joins former Harlequins player Jon Dawson as this seasons new props. Dawson signed for the club in March.

Dowd, now forwards coach for the club said, 'This signing of David will go a long way in rebuilding our front row. He is a big unit, tall, very strong and can play on both sides of the scrum. We already have some great props in Tim Payne and Alistair McKenzie, but with Wills and mines exit and Henry Nwume deciding to play only A games next season, we needed to make more signings.'

Speaking on his move to London, Van Eyk said, 'Ive enjoyed playing at Waikato but this opportunity to move to Englands premier club, was an opportunity not to be missed. Filling the boots of Will Green and Craig Dowd wont be easy, but Im up for the challenge.'

Van Eyk has represented Waikato at U19 and U21 level and broke into the first team this year. He has completed a business management degree majoring in economics and finance and is currently doing his exams towards an accounting diploma.

Van Eyk comes from a dairy farming background and has Dutch ancestry.

Details:
Name: David Anthony Van Eyk
Position: Prop
Height: 1.89m
Weight: 122kg
DOB: 22.2.82
Education: Hauraki Plains College; Waikato University
Club: Hamilton Marist