Pocock makes the White decision
David Pocock has revealed that the opportunity of being coached by Jake White was a major part of his decision to join the Brumbies.
The star Wallabies openside flank and Western Force captain announced on Saturday that he will be leaving the Perth-based team to join the former Springbok World Cup-winning coach in Canberra.
Pocock has played for the Force since he was just 17, but has endured a number of frustrating campaigns since then and following a long period of speculation decided to leave to join the Brumbies.
The double Super Rugby champions staged a remarkable revival this season under White's guidance, and narrowly lost out on taking the Australian conference to the Reds who pipped them in the last match of the regular season.
In an open letter to supporters of rugby in Western Australia posted on his Facebook page Pocock explained that joining the Brumbies is the best decision for his career, and cited White's influence as a major factor.
"Playing under former Springboks coach Jake White with all of his knowledge and experience will allow me to have a fresh approach to the game and continue to challenge myself," he explained.
Pocock said that whilst it was a very difficult decision to make given his history with the Force, it was the right decision for his family as well.
"Being based on the east coast will bring me closer to my family, who I've not seen as much of as I'd have liked, due to the combined factors of being located in Perth, and the heavy year-long rugby schedule.
"Travel is also a factor. With Perth being the most isolated of the 15 Super Rugby capitals, the travel commitments are greater than for any other side inthe competition," he said.
Reflecting on his time with the Force Pocock spoke of all he had learned during the process of launching a new franchise, but admitted that the disappointing results over the years also played a role in his decision to leave.
"When I was just 17 the Force offered me an amazing opportunity to come and play under John Mitchell and John Mulvihill – to train with and learn from the likes of Nathan Sharpe, Brendan Cannon, Matt Hodgson and many others who I now consider great friends.
"I have learnt so much in my time here. Being part of building a team in an AFL town was never going to be easy and we've certainly had our fair share of ups and downs over the last seven years.
"There have been times we have fallen well short of our potential and while the commitment of everyone at the club can't be faulted,for all of the attitude and best intentions – both on and away from the field, I wouldn't be honest if I didn't acknowledge that," he added.
