Schalk Ferreira is a seasoned rugby player, born in Pretoria, and a product of Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch. He has represented various teams, including Western Province, Stormers, Eastern Province, Southern Kings, and Toulouse in France.

Ferreira began his rugby journey at a young age, representing Western Province at the Under-16 level in 2000 and competing in the prestigious Under-18 Craven Week in 2001 and 2002. He went on to play for the South African Schools team and later represented South Africa in the Under-19 Rugby World Championship in 2003, where South Africa triumphed by defeating New Zealand in the final. He was also part of the Under-21 squad in 2004.

After making his Vodacom Cup debut in 2005, Ferreira played 58 matches for Western Province. In 2007, he debuted in Super Rugby for the Stormers. His career faced a setback in 2008 due to a neck injury, but he returned to action and later decided to retire at the end of the 2009 season due to another injury. However, Ferreira made a comeback in 2012, helping Western Province win the Vodacom Cup for the first time.

He then joined the Eastern Province Kings in 2012, where he contributed to their promotion-relegation play-offs and the Southern Kings, where he played a key role in their first-ever match in 2013. After his time with the Kings, Ferreira moved to Toulouse in France before returning to South Africa.

Ferreira joined the Toyota Cheetahs in 2021, making his debut at the age of 37, becoming the oldest player to debut for the Free State in 127 years. He was also part of the 2023 Currie Cup-winning squad. Known for his vast experience, Ferreira primarily plays as a loosehead prop and is right-handed and right-footed.

Schalk's rugby career spans over 15 years, showcasing his resilience and dedication to the sport.