Cowan back for 10th Force season
Inaugural Western Force squad member Pek Cowan has re-signed with the franchise for a further two seasons.
This will ensure that he will be a part of the franchise's 10th season in Super Rugby in 2015.
The 28-year-old formed an established starting front row with Nathan Charles and Kieran Longbottom in 2014 – with his consistent performances seeing him make a return to the Test arena after three years, to represent the Wallabies in Tests against France, New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina.
The 10-Test Wallaby has returned from his national duties, and is in line for selection for the Perth Spirit's National Championship grand final against Brisbane City on Saturday.
Cowan was recruited to the Western Force as a 19-year-old for the franchise's foundation year in 2006 and has since amassed 91 Super Rugby caps.
Cowan is set to follow captain Matt Hodgson as the second player to eclipse 100 caps for the Western Australian franchise.
Cowan, who is a member of the Western Force's Standards Group and captained the Force for three matches in Matt Hodgson's absence in 2013, says he's excited about remaining with the franchise for another two years.
"I've never wanted to leave this franchise until we've achieved something as a group," he said.
"Last year it felt like we almost got there but there's definitely a feeling of having unfinished business.
"I want to see this franchise succeed and that's a real driving force for me. Falling at the final hurdle last year has definitely fuelled the guys moving forward. Last season was confirmation that what we're doing is working and what we're doing is right, it's just a matter of ensuring that we're just a little bit better across the board if we're to take the next step in this competition.
"There's a lot of belief in this squad. We want to play for each other, we respect each other and we continue to drive higher standards, but this year we also learned how to win and had the belief and trust that our training and preparation were going to get us our results on the field."
Western Force coach Michael Foley says Cowan has become a key senior member in the side.
"As a long-serving member of the team, Pek has made a special contribution to our growing success over the last two seasons," he said.
"Along with Matt [Hodgson] and Wykesy [Sam Wykes] – our other 'old boys' – Peka has resisted the temptation to use the past as an excuse and has led a significant shift in mindset focused on higher standards and greater expectation.
"He's a player that has always had a desire to see the Force succeed and has pushed himself and his mates to reach a higher level of performance this season.
"We have all been thrilled to see him back in Wallaby colours this season as a reward for his commitment and perseverance."
