News

Van Schalkwyk to play in Italy

Tuesday 28th October 2008

Italy bound: Jaco van Schalkwyk

Lions utility back Jaco van Schalkwyk has signed a deal with Italian club Futura Park Roma.

The Johannesburg-based Super 14 franchise finished the 2008 competition in last place, and the loss of an experienced head will not help matters.

Van Schalkwyk has served his tenure as a utility player, but with the rise of Michael Killian and Louis Ludik together with the signings of Trompie Nontshinga and Kiwi Willie Rickards, it's not hard to see why he's opted to move on.

The 29-year-old has represented South Africa at Sevens level, and apart from the Lions has featured for both Western Province and the Free State Cheetahs.

This will be his second stint in Italy having played for Calvisano in 2005-06.

Futura Park Roma were recently promoted to Italy's Super 10.