Super 14 - Bartholomeusz joins Western Force

Eurosport - Sat, 01 Aug 12:02:00 2009

Former Brumbies back Mark Bartholomeusz has confirmed that he will return to the Super 14 in 2010 with the Western Force.

Mark Bartholomeusz - Saracens - 0

Having earned a single Australia cap against Italy in 2002, Bartholomeusz (pictured) will resurrect his Australian provincial career after signing a two-year deal with the West Australian side.

The 32-year-old utility's last domestic rugby experience involved a lap of honour around Canberra Stadium after his Brumbies side had crushed the Crusaders to win the 2004 Super 12 title.

That match was the last of his 68 Super Rugby appearances for the Brumbies, before heading overseas for two-year stints with English Premiership outfit Saracens (04/05 and 05/06) and Irish Celtic League club Ulster (06/07 and 07/08).

Having also played a role as coaching advisor for the backs during his time at Ulster, the experienced campaigner then packed his bags for Italy to play the 2008/09 season with Petrarca Padova in the Italian Super 10 Championship.

Equally adept at full-back, fly-half, inside centre and wing, RugbyWA general manager Mitch Hardy said the veteran playmaker's versatility makes him a key addition to the 2010 squad.

"Mark is an established player and proven performer in four different positions, which makes him a rare commodity in the modern game and obviously a strong addition to our squad," he said.

"His experience speaks for itself and the leadership he brings on board will certainly be an asset for us. He's a seasoned professional and you'd expect a lot of his qualities to rub off on our younger squad members."

The Force have also secured the signature of gifted Queensland teenager Stefano Hunt.

PA Sport

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