The Western Force has secured the signature of 24-year-old Australia A representative Hamish Stewart on a two-year contract.
As a former Junior Wallaby who played in the Australia A matches in the Pacific Nations Cup last month, Stewart brings international and Super Rugby experience to the Force.
The 24-year-old joins the Force from the Queensland Reds, where he earned 72 caps after making his debut in 2017 against the Hurricanes as a 19-year-old.
Stewart is a specialist fly-half who has also played at inside-centre and full-back during his Super Rugby career.
The Toowoomba-born playmaker is excited to make his mark at the Force.
“I just want to do everything I can to go as one unit. Obviously, we want to go to finals so hopefully we get that finals berth and go all the way through to win” Stewart said.
“I’m really looking forward to it and experiencing the Sea of Blue. The comradery of the players with the crowd always adds atmosphere. The Sea of Blue are very much like having a 16th player on the field.
“It will be great to reconnect with some of the guys I used to play with at the Reds too. I haven’t played with them for a couple of years, so it will be good to relight the candle and put our best foot forward.”
General manager of rugby Matt Hodgson is delighted to have Stewart join ahead of the 2023 season.
“Hamish brings a broad skillset and breadth of experience that adds a new dimension to our backline,” Hodgson explained.
“He’s a tough and youthful competitor who has a great understanding of the game having played consistently since his debut.
“He’s a humble man who suits our team culture well, so we can’t wait to see him develop on the field and contribute to our club for at least the next two years.”
Stewart joins the squad following confirmation that talented young fly-half Reesjan Pasitoa will miss a majority of the 2023 Super Rugby Pacific campaign after injuring his knee during a Fortescue Premier Grade game.
