Queensland native and former rugby league star, Clinton Schifcofske (32), crossed codes at the end of 2006, from a ten year career in rugby league, on a two year contract with rugby union side the Reds. Clinton, who has earned caps for Australia A in the Pacific Nations Cup and had over ten Super 14 appearances, will bring a mix of experience, agile footwork, speed-off the mark and accurate goal kicking, all of which make him a valuable acquisition to Ulster. In his first match for Australia A, the hard running full-back scored a personal tally of 23 points and has a kicking success rate of almost 80 per cent. Speaking about his move to Ulster Rugby, Clinton Schifcofske commented:
"I'm really looking forward to this new and exciting chapter in my life and rugby career. I know the Ulster fans are very passionate and supportive of their team and I'm really looking forward to myself and the team giving them plenty to cheer about. I was also delighted to be coming over with my current team mate here at the Reds, Ed O'Donoghue. Ed's become a good friend of mine and is a terrific young player with loads of potential."
"Both myself and my young family are really excited about the move to a very beautiful part of the world and experiencing a new culture, something that we may have never experienced if it wasn't for this opportunity with Ulster Rugby" continued Clinton.
Irish-Qualified, Ed O'Donoghue is returning to the UK after a two year contract with Queensland Reds. Before heading to Australia, O'Donoghue developed a wealth of experience and professional skills, over three seasons with Northampton Saints and Worcester Warriors. The 25 year old lock was born in London to Irish parents, grew up in Brisbane, Australia and earned a place on the Australian U19's squad. Ed also played in the Australian Provincial Championship and earned his first Super 14 start in 2007, going on to play all thirteen games in the season. Talking about his return to the UK and signing with Ulster, Ed O'Donoghue remarked:
"I'm really happy to be turning out for Ulster and excited about the possibilities of the coming season. I'm delighted the club has given me the chance to be part of the squad and excited about being back in the UK."
"What I'm really looking forward to is catching up with family and friends in Ireland and the UK, and of course, winning lots of rugby matches. It's great that Clinton is moving to Ulster at the same time, i'll at least have one familiar face on my first training day, but it will be great getting to meet so many new people and develop my skills under the experienced Ulster management" added Ed.
The end of the season at Ravenhill saw Ulster men; Justin Harrison; Tommy Bowe; David Humpreys; Neil Best; Roger Wilson; Mark Bartholomeusz and Kieran Campbell, all hang up their white shirts for the last time, which has opened Ulster's doors for a number of new signings. Matt Williams Head Coach of Ulster Rugby commented on the new faces at Ravenhill. Speaking about Clinton Schifcofske Matt said:
"Clinton is a hugely respected figure in Australian rugby union and rugby league. He's an experienced Captain and Leader, essential qualities with our young back line. Clinton is also a very high percentage goal kicker and a confident Super 14 player."
When asked about new signing, Ed O'Donoghue Matt answered:
"Ed is a rare find. An experienced European player currently playing Super 14 and Irish qualified. He is great replacement for Justin Harrison at Ravenhill."
Matt Williams looks forward to his first full season at Ravenhill, with his goals firmly fixed on success and with new blood in the squad, the new rugby season looks set to give Ulster fans something to stand up for!
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