Ross Skeate in Toulon. Image © www.rossskeate.com

15 June 2010 (07:48) - The Sharks have signed lock Ross Skeate from France on a two year contract, effective 1 July, 2010 to 30 June 2012. The former Stormers and Toulon player will be a great asset to The Sharks.

After leaving Western Province and the Stormers two years ago, he joined Toulon who were on the brink of relegation. This season, they became European Cup finalists as well as qualifying for the Heineken Cup. He is acknowledged as a leader who assisted in the successful turnabout process for the club.

“My desire to play rugby in a team with a blend of international players, learn a new language and improve my forward play took me to France and I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Toulon which I see as a success,” he explains.

“However, despite the team’s fortunes, I have a desire to return to South Africa and have chosen The Sharks as the right culture and team environment to continue my career. I believe my rugby philosophy and that of The Sharks is very similar and hence my decision to play in Durban. I look forward to it with eager anticipation.”

Ross boasts an impressive playing pedigree that includes age group representativity (SA Under 19 and Under 21), Western Province and Stormers (90 caps including captaincy), Emerging Springboks, UK Barbarians, Southern Kings vs British & Irish Lions and 45 caps for Toulon in the French Top 14 as well as eight caps in the European Cup.

“With the loss of one of our most senior players, Johann Muller, we have decided to add an experienced player in Ross Skeate,” explains coach John Plumtree. “He is considered a senior player at Toulon, as he was at Western Province, and that is something that stands him in good stead here at The Sharks because of his leadership qualities and experience. He’s a fantastic character.

“He is a mobile, versatile player, an intelligent person who brings all round lock-specific as well as forward athleticism to the game. We look forward to having him here and welcome him with open arms.”

Ross is a true professional who avoids alcohol and supports charitable courses like Breast Cancer Awareness, handicapped children and animal welfare (SPCA). He is also an accomplished public-speaker with a degree from UCT and a contributor to a number of websites and publications.

Age: 27
Date of Birth: 2 August, 1982
Height: 2.01m
Weight: 115kgs