Paul Jordaan: Why I left SA for French rugby

Former Sharks centre Paul Jordaan (left) says a lack of "recognition from the national selectors" caused him to move to France. Photo: Muzi Ntombela/Backpagepix

Former Sharks centre Paul Jordaan (left) says a lack of "recognition from the national selectors" caused him to move to France. Photo: Muzi Ntombela/Backpagepix

Published Feb 19, 2017

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LA ROCHELLE, France - After five years with the Sharks, Paul Jordaan is now plying his trade with French club La Rochelle, who are the surprise log leaders in the Top 14 this season.

In an interview with MyPlayers, Jordaan, who plays centre, gave his reasons why he left South Africa to further his career in France.

“I enjoyed five good years at the Sharks. However, I didn't feel I was getting any recognition from the national selectors, so I decided to look for a fresh challenge overseas.

“It's a good time in my career to test myself outside my comfort zone. I had offers from Scotland and Japan, but got a really good deal from La Rochelle. I made the move with my fiancée, Natasha.”

Jordaan says they have settled in well in their adopted country.

“The club was really good to us. They helped us find a place to stay and sorted us out with other admin stuff, like cellphone contracts.

“I've also connected with fellow South African Ricky Januarie. He and his family have been great to me and my fiancée.”

When asked if he experienced any culture shocks, he said he had adapted well.

“La Rochelle is a tourist city, so there aren't too many culture shocks. The language barrier can get difficult but we're looking forward to learning French.

“We're getting better each day. It helps that there are a few Fijians, New Zealanders and Australians in our squad, so there are players who speak English.”

Jordaan says he is really enjoying his rugby.

“La Rochelle want to compete in the French Top 14, which is exciting.

“We've proven our worth so far, leading the log after 17 matches, which has surprised everyone. I'm enjoying myself and managed to score a few tries.

“The coaches want us to play attacking rugby and offload the ball when possible.”

Questioned about the the standard of rugby in France, he says: “Super Rugby is a tougher competition compared to the French Top 14, although the fans in France are amazing. There's so much passion.”

Jordaan says he keeps seeing many familiar faces in his travels.

“There are so many South Africans in France. It's like a South African reunion every weekend.

“Against Castres, I saw guys like Robert Ebersohn and Rory Kockott. Against Grenoble, I saw Gio Aplon and Charl McLeod.”

Talking about future plans off the field, he says he and his fiancée want to travel.

“We want to see other amazing cities and experience the European culture.”

And what advice does he have for players headed to France? “Speak to players who have played here before for more insights and advice. During my final months at the Sharks, I could turn to guys like Joe Pietersen and Michael Claassens, who played many seasons in France.

“Their advice helped me a lot.” 

ANA & MyPlayers

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