By Michael McMullan

FORMER Derry u-20 goalkeeper Jack Scullion is set to make this American Football debut on Thursday.

The Lavey player signed a scholarship with the Rutgers in New Jersey and is in line for action when they entertain Howard on Thursday night (6pm EST).

The game will be screened live via the Big 10 Network with some of his family having made the journey to be among an expected attendance of 40,000 fans.

Scullion takes over as kicker from Jude McAtamney who has since signed for the New York Giants.

Scullion, who was called into the Derry senior panel under Rory Gallagher, attended a camp in Dublin where his first kick caught the attention of kicking coach Tadhg Leader.

After playing outfield with Lavey at underage, he moved between the posts at minor level and was an important part of their back-to-back minor winning team that also conquered Ulster at St Paul’s.

It led to a call up for the Derry u-20 and senior squads.

The wheels began to turn and with McAtamney leaving, the Rutgers had a spot on their roster.

After a formal visit to the university, Scullion was offered a scholarship. He now has a chance to impress NFL scouts when he starts playing on the college scene.

Check our our interview with Jack on our edition of Gaelic Lives after he joined the Rutgers