Western Force lure Brumbies trio to Perth
TRANSFER NEWS: The Western Force has strengthened its backline for the 2022 season with the signing of three exciting young players in Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Bayley Kuenzle and Reece Tapine on two-year contracts from the Brumbies.
Fines returns to Western Australia after spending the last two seasons at the Brumbies, which included winning the Super Rugby AU title in 2020.
The 25-year-old Nathan Sharpe Medal-winner comes back to the Force after playing a vital part in the club’s memorable NRC title in 2019.
Fines is a one-of-a-kind player and has the potential to take his game to the next level.
“You’ve seen how well the club has done this year and I’m really keen to get amongst it to keep building on that,” Fines said.
“I’m coming to the Force for a great opportunity. I want to play some consistent rugby and be around such a great club. WA rugby gave me my first chance in a professional environment, so I can’t wait to give back to them.”
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Kuenzle, who made his Super Rugby debut in Round 2 last year against the Melbourne Rebels, is an exciting 22-year-old playmaker who has shown immense potential in the early stages of his career.
Kuenzle has the ability to play both flyhalf and inside centre, with his attacking prowess and fearless approach in defence sure to excite Force fans.
“The Force is a proud organisation that is building, so I’m looking forward to being part of something special,” Kuenzle said.
“I’d love to play for the Wallabies. Hopefully, I can experience some regular game time and enjoy a strong season to earn that chance to play for Australia.”
The Force has also added speed to the backline with Tapine. The 21-year-old is a versatile player who can play at both outside centre and on the wing to great effect.
Reece has all the attributes of a Super Rugby player and will be looking to make his competition debut in Force colours in 2022.
Head of rugby Matt Hodgson is delighted to be recruiting three bright and talented players to the club.
“It’s fantastic to be able to attract young players of such great ability to the Force. They all have bright futures ahead of them and we’re looking forward to seeing what they can add for years to come here in WA,” Hodgson explained.
“Issak is an exceptional player and person who knows the club really well having spent a couple of years with us previously. He’s shown his creative prowess on the Super Rugby stage now and it’s great to have him back.”
“Bayley is another player who has showcased his strengths on the big stage over the past two seasons and is sure to excite the fans with his running game and skills with the ball in hand. Reece has great potential and will provide pace and athleticism to the squad.”
