Western Force Chief Executive Officer Tony Lewis has a clear vision to ensure the growth of rugby union in Western Australia, with a focus on young talent.
Having been out in the community meeting with clubs since taking on the CEO role, Lewis has been on a mission to build relationships.
“I visited Nedlands Rugby Club to speak with the players and parents of their 18’s side and I’ve presented to all the other clubs’ senior members,” he said.
“My aim now is to get out to games on Saturday’s and talk to committees to discuss how we can help build a strong connection between the Force and local clubs.
“It’s crucial to get down to the grounds and hear what they have to say and understand their point of view. I’m passionate about club rugby, so I’m looking forward to getting down to as many games as possible this year.”
With the Western Force Fortescue Academy launched in January and four players having recently taken part in the Junior Wallabies training camp on the Gold Coast, Lewis is determined to see the program grow from strength to strength in years to come.
“We want to have the best academy in Australia. We want to attract the best players within WA and Australia,” the 1987 Western Australian state team representative explained.
“When we retain and recruit talented players from around the country, we want to get them involved at an age where their first taste of senior rugby is with local clubs here in Perth and the clubs become associated with them and viewed as one of their own.”
Having played for the Western Suburbs Club (now Wests Scarborough) while living in Perth in the late 1980s, Lewis understands the role of local rugby in developing players.
“We ensure our coaches get out into the club space. Club coaches are volunteers giving up their time, so we’ll be aiming to assist them wherever we can,” he said.
“The more our players can play in the club competition throughout the Super Rugby season when they aren’t selected, the better. Force player alignment with WA clubs is very important.
“We’ve invested heavily in the young age groups. I think the key for us now is to focus on ensuring they continue to play the game and convert them into becoming members of local clubs.”
