Brumbies sign up Stannard

Editor

The Brumbies have signed former Western Force scrum-half James Stannard for one year.The 25-year-old made his Super 14 debut in 2008 against the Sharks and played ten matches for the West Australians.

The Brumbies have signed former Western Force scrum-half James Stannard for one year.

The 25-year-old made his Super 14 debut in 2008 against the Sharks and played ten matches for the West Australians.

Stannard says he's looking forward to returning to the East Coast to join the Brumbies.

“I'm really looking forward to getting down there, getting stuck into the training and proving myself before the start of the Super 14 season,” he said.

“The Brumbies have a history of developing players and playing a very free running style of play which are two things that appeal to me. I like darting a lot [from the base of the ruck], hitting forwards and asking questions of the defence and I think that will tie in well with the way the Brumbies play.”

The former St Edmund's College, Ipswich student represented Brisbane's Souths club at fly-half and centre between 2003 and 2005 before moving to Perth in 2006.

He joined the RugbyWA Academy the following year and received a full contract with the Western Force after a strong showing during the Mazda Australian Rugby Championship (ARC).

Head Coach Andy Friend says Stannard's continual improvement augurs well for his time at the Brumbies.

“James' inclusion adds another dimension to an already competitive position within the squad,” he said.

“We're fortunate to pick up another scrum-half with Super 14 experience and he'll certainly be in the mix for a starting position alongside Pat Phibbs and Josh Holmes.

“James has proven himself at Super 14 level and shown what a tough and competitive half he is.

“He's stepped up with each opportunity he's been given from club level and the ARC through to Super 14 and we're keen to see him continue to develop as part of the CA Brumbies.”