Fuglistaller extends Rebels stay

Editor

The Rebels have announced that back-row Scott Fuglistaller has put pen to paper on a two-year contract extension.

The Rebels have announced that back-row Scott Fuglistaller has put pen to paper on a two-year contract extension, meaning he will remain at the Melbourne-based franchise until at least the end of the 2016 Super Rugby season.

After just two Super Rugby caps in his native New Zealand, Scott had no hesitation in repaying the faith the Rebels placed in him when they first signed him.

“I'm very happy to be extending my stay at the Rebels,” Fuglistaller told the Melbourne Rebels' official website.

“This club gave me a two year contract and a chance in Super Rugby, and I feel like repaying the faith in them is the right thing to do and I am happy to stick around for another two years.”

The openside flanker had an outstanding debut season in 2013, playing every game and winning the Spirit of Weary Dunlop Award for the player who showed the most passion for the club on the field.

He has continued in a similar vein in 2014, missing just one game due to injury and joining the club's leadership group.

“I feel like I have learnt a lot this year (under Tony McGahan),” he said. “My confidence has grown, and I feel like out of all of my years in Rugby I have learnt the most this year which is a real positive.

“Being in the leadership group didn't play a huge factor in me deciding to stay; my young family was my main focus there. However being in the leadership group is a nice added bonus, as is playing regularly and having fun with the boys.”

Rebels' Head Coach Tony McGahan identified Fuglistaller as a priority re-signing, and is pleased to see him commit to the club.

“Scott has been a very important part of the club over the last couple of years, and especially this year with such a young group,” McGahan said.

“His leadership across the group has been fantastic and is certainly backed up by his on-field efforts.”