Haylett-Petty signs new Force deal

Editor

Western Force utility back Dane Haylett-Petty has reportedly signed a one-year contract extension with the Perth-based side for 2015.

Western Force utility back Dane Haylett-Petty has signed a one-year contract extension with the Perth-based franchise for 2015 according to Australian media reports.

Petty, who came through the Force's academy ranks, played for their senior side from 2008 to 2010 before spending three seasons in the Top 14 with Biarritz and a stint in Japan.

He returned to the Force earlier this year and helped them to finish in eighth position in the standings after the completion of the league phase of the competition.

“I've really enjoyed coming back to the Force and getting back to Perth with all my friends and family,” Haylett-Petty told the West Australian.

“I missed the first six weeks of the season this year, which wasn't ideal, but I then played nine of the last 10.

“I felt like I was starting to find some form at the end of the season, but unfortunately the end came too soon. I'm really looking forward to getting back next year and pushing for a place in that back three again.

“It's been great to come into such a great group of boys here at the Force. The group is very tight, the culture is really strong and continues to grow, and it's just a pleasure to come to training every day.

“That said, it's important that we continue to work hard as it would be shame to take a step backward after all the advances we've made this season.”

“It's great to see so many local guys coming through. Each year the number of local players seems to be growing and there seems to be more and more excellent young talent coming through which is fantastic.

“It just shows at all the work that's been done by the Force over the past 10 years to develop these players is paying off.”

Force coach Michael Foley said they were determined to retain Haylett-Petty's services for the 2015 season.

“Having watched Dane play in the French competition for Biarritz, it was clear he'd developed excellent game understanding to compliment a good pass, run and kick skill set,” said Foley.

“On that basis and the fact that he is one of our Perth boys, we were keen for him to rejoin the team.

“While Dane can play 15, wing and centre, the character he displayed in his performance as a last-minute inclusion against the Waratahs emphasised why we had to ensure he remained part of the squad into the future.”