Throughout the off-season, we'll be catching up with Western Force Legends to look back on their storied careers and see what they are up to. This week, it's Ben "Big Dog" McCalman, one of the toughest players to don the Force jersey.
With 92 Western Force appearances between 2010 and 2018, McCalman is, without a shadow of a doubt, a club legend. After making his debut against the Brumbies back in 2010, McCalman went on to forge a sensational Super Rugby and Wallabies career.
Born in Dubbo, New South Wales, McCalman was a dependable and world-class number eight. His toughness, willingness to put his body on the line, and natural leadership qualities, ensured he became adored by the Sea of Blue. He spent his entire Super Rugby career with the Force and was named captain for the 2017 season.
The powerful back rower enjoyed a meteoric rise to the Wallabies set-up making his Test debut the same year as his Super Rugby debut in 2010. McCalman earned 53 caps for the Wallabies, including appearances in the 2011 and 2015 World Cups. Who could forget his heroic try-saving tackle against Wales at the 2015 World Cup in England!
McCalman signed a flexible contract in 2015, allowing him to play in Japan for Panasonic Wild Knights and remain with the Western Force. He would make his final appearance for the Force in the 46-41 win over South African side the Kings in Perth, with injuries bringing a premature end to a remarkable career.
Following a pair of games for Perth Spirit in the National Rugby Championship and a Spring Tour with the Wallabies, McCalman moved back home to the family farm, where he continues to work hard!
