Santiago Medrano has re-committed with the Western Force after penning a contract extension for the 2024 Harvey Norman Super Rugby Pacific season.
The Argentina international signed with the Force in 2021 from the Argentinian-based Jaguars. Over the last three years the 115kg tighthead prop has built a reputation as a skilful and hard-working front rower who puts his body on the line each week.
Medrano, who earlier this month missed out on selection in Argentina’s World Cup, was third in the Force’s Nathan Sharpe medal in the 2023 Super Rugby season.
Medrano’s extension follows the additions of new Force signings Lopefi Taifua, Harry Hoopert, Will Harris, Harry Potter, Ben Donaldson and Nic White for the 2024 season.
Head coach Simon Cron is pleased the 33-time capped front-rower Medrano has re-committed, stating his hefty frame and international experience is influential on and off the field.
"Santi is a legend in our team. He is tough, resilient, and driven to be the best. The coaches love working with him, and the players follow him on and off the field," Cron said.
"We are excited that Santi and his partner Sofia are keen to stay in Perth and be a part of the Force into the future. I feel Santi still has huge upside and the potential to be one of the best tightheads in world rugby."
The 27-year-old has made Perth home and is confident in the team's position ahead of the 2024 season.
"Perth has become our new home; we have loved our three years in WA and can't imagine living elsewhere in the immediate future," Medrano said.
"I wanted to stay at the Force as there is a lot of potential within the squad and club. We were so close to making finals this season; the squad has enough drive and talent to play finals footy in 2024.
“There have been huge shifts in mentality and skill from where I started at the club three years ago. The work that is constantly put in off the field is starting to show on match days, and I expect big things from this group next season.
“I am excited to team up with our forwards coach Jimmy Duffy again; he has improved my game considerably over the last six months. He is a very knowledgeable coach, and I value his ideas and look forward to seeing where we can go next season."
