Western Force flyhalf Andrew Deegan has made the tough call to leave WA and take his talents to Melbourne next year but leaves with nothing but praise for the Force who, in his words, provided a ‘lifeline’ that has catapulted him firmly into the conversation for future national team honours.
Deegan has spent the past two years in Perth after being brought back to Australia from Ireland by the Force. The 24-year-old will relocate to Victoria and link up with the Rebels for the 2020 Super Rugby season but acknowledged he wrestled with the decision to depart having grown as a person, player, and leader in a Western Force program that is producing outstanding results.
“I left Australia at twenty-two years old trying to explore the world, but it was the Western Force who provided me with a lifeline back into Australian rugby and I am extremely grateful to them for giving me the chance,” Deegan said.
“While I am looking forward to a new endeavour and challenge, I am very thankful for what the Force has provided me with in the last two seasons.
“I have really enjoyed playing with the Force and it has really helped my rugby. I will be keeping a very close eye on Global Rapid Rugby and I do believe there are only good things to come from the competition.”
The announcement of his move next year does nothing to change his immediate focus of bringing the National Rugby Championship title to WA. The West Aussie’s campaign started in positive fashion with a thrilling one-point win against last year’s runner-up Queensland Country, while this week they head to Fiji to tackle 2018 NRC Champions Fijian Drua.
“We have an opportunity to put our foot down in this competition and come back with a few good results,” Deegan said.
“Going to Fiji this week… it is good to get away and bond as a team overseas.
“Last year they were the benchmark… we were just over there with Global Rapid Rugby and we came away with the win but we know there are a lot of changes in their team. Fiji is coming off a draw to Brisbane City so I am sure they are ready to get back and put on a performance for their home crowd, while we are excited to get over there and get a win.”
The Western Force will always hold a special place in Deegan’s heart and he highlighted the unique environment embraced by all players plying their trade in the west.
“I think the community aspect is huge with families, the crowd, and the Sea of Blue. There are very few crowds that have such passion for rugby, so the next few years are an exciting prospect where Global Rapid Rugby may lead,” Deegan said.
Force coach Tim Sampson praised Deegan’s application and willingness to learn and predicts positive things for the crafty 10.
“Deegs is so coachable, he brings fresh ideas to the group and lives our motto of ‘work hard and stay humble’,” Sampson said.
“To have played a hand in the development of Andrew Deegan is a delight.”
