Prop Osman Dimen joins Bedford Blues

Posted: 19th July 2021
 

Bedford Blues have further bolstered their tighthead options for the upcoming Championship campaign as Osman Dimen links up with Mike Rayer’s squad from Leicester Tigers.

The 6’1” 22-year-old, sponsored by Ceetak, was a renowned black belt kick-boxer in his younger years, with the option to make it professionally in the ring, but aged 16 decided rugby was his focus. Initially beginning with Saracens Amateurs – playing his first game against Bedfordshire club Biggleswade – before representing Wasps in the Academies League.

He stayed in the Wasps set-up until his move to Loughborough University to study Geography where he racked up vital minutes in both the BUCS University programme and National One for the students. Those performances led to a call-up from Leicester Tigers.

In 2019/20, he featured frequently for the ‘A’ side while on dual-reg with Birmingham Moseley, making a further 10 National One appearances before COVID-19 cancelled the season early.

A teak-tough tighthead who combines the solid basics of scrummaging with huge carrying power, Dimen has learnt from former Blue Dan Cole in recent years and will be looking to replicate the senior statesman while at Goldington Road.

On joining, he said: “Bedford was a no brainer for me. Having not had the chance to play in well over a year due to injury, the prospect of joining such a prestigious club to showcase and develop my game was something I couldn't turn down.

“Bedford’s reputation for developing world class players speaks for itself. Mike and Alex have created an unbelievable environment, I’m sure training will be challenging and fast paced which will do wonders for my game. I'm very proud to have the chance to show what I'm about here.”

Head Coach, Alex Rae added: “Our former hooker, Claire Clare recommended Osman to us and spoke highly of him. He’s a little bit raw, but has all the right ingredients to do really well in the Championship.

“We’re confident that if he works hard and we put the time into him, Osman could come really good for us. Hopefully a rough diamond to add further competition to our front row.”