The Western Force has bolstered its backline stocks with the signing of Bryce Hegarty on a one-year deal.
Hegarty joins the Force from English side Leicester Tigers, the recently crowned Premiership Rugby champions.
The utility back, who plays predominantly as a full-back or fly-half, made his Super Rugby for the Melbourne Rebels in 2013.
Hegarty enjoyed time with the NSW Waratahs and Queensland Reds in-between stints in the Japanese Top League with Toyota Shokki Shuttles and Black Rams Tokyo.
The 29-year-old Brisbane-born playmaker brings a wealth of experience with him having earned his 100th Super Rugby cap in 2021 after playing a vital part in the Reds 2020 Super Rugby AU title.
Returning to Australia for the 2023 campaign, Hegarty is excited to be joining the Force as it begins a new era under Simon Cron.
“I’m joining a team that’s clearly on the rise and ready to challenge the top teams of the competition,” Hegarty said.
“Simon (Cron) is one of the best coaches I’ve worked with. The way he connects the group to get the best out of the players is something quite rare and I’m really excited to be working with him again. “Joining the Force is a great opportunity to help the club be one of the dominant teams in Super Rugby. I’m looking forward to doing everything I can to help the team achieve that.”
General Manager of Rugby Matt Hodgson said Hegarty brings much more than experience to the squad.
“Bryce is a proven winner having won titles with the Reds and Leicester. He holds the confidence and winning mentality that we’re determined to build on across the club with Simon (Cron) at the helm,” Hodgson explained.
“Bryce’s time in the UK and Japan has equipped him with the skills and knowledge to play different styles and understand the game at an elite level, which he can pass onto our youthful inside backs.
“He’s a player that allows us flexibility in our approach on either side of the ruck. His ability to identify gaps and control the tempo at 10 or 15 is a major asset for the squad.”
