Force keeps key playmaker
The Western Force has re-signed rising playmaker Kyle Godwin for the 2013 and 2014 Super Rugby seasons.
Godwin is the first player to be recruited or re-signed since Michael Foley was appointed to head the rugby program for 2013.
The local Aquinas College product made his Super Rugby debut against the Reds in Perth this season before holding down the starting flyhalf role for the Australian Under-20 side at the IRB Junior World Championship in South Africa.
The 20-year-old returned to record a second Super Rugby cap off the bench against the Crusaders in the final week of the competition, scoring his maiden provincial try in a polished performance in the playmaking role.
Zimbabwe-born Godwin says he's looking forward to continuing his rugby development with the Western Force.
"Being home-grown and having been part of the Force for the past few years, I wanted to stay and continue going forward with them," the former Australian Schoolboy said.
"I really enjoyed my first taste of Super Rugby this year. I was very grateful for having the opportunity and I'm keen to keep training hard, keep learning, and trying to develop my game to get some more game time next year.
"Michael [Foley] said he's very keen to help me develop my game and help me become the best player I can possibly be, and hopefully with that will come some more opportunities.
"Michael's already shown he's looking to make a few changes and freshen things up and I think it'll be very good for the team."
Foley says Godwin's re-signing represents the future direction of the Western Force.
"I'm extremely pleased to have Kyle recommit with the Western Force," he said. "He showed great promise this year, both with the Australian Under 20 side and with his opportunities at Super Rugby level.
"Our priority is to sign young and exciting talent – and Kyle certainly fits that mould. If we're serious about relaunching the side, we need to be identifying and recruiting the best young talent and looking to develop them over the next few years.
"Kyle was sought after by other provinces and it's a great endorsement for us that's he keen to stay; and with his skill and dedication over the next two years there's no doubt he'll be looking to become a regular fixture at the provincial level.
"While he's a young up-and-coming player, this is a significant signing in that it reflects our desire to continue working with the entire WA rugby family and it's testament to the potential that exists for young players in our local community."
