Wednesday Morning Round Up

David Wessels appointed Western Force Head Coach

Western Force have announced the appointment of David Wessels as the new Head Coach of the club for the next two seasons.

Wessels was appointed Defence Consultant for the Western Force in 2013, and later Senior Assistant Coach for the 2014, 2015 and 2016 seasons.

He then took over as Interim Head Coach for the last three games of the Western Force’s 2016 season.

“This opportunity is an amazing privilege,” he said.

“Not only because I love the game of rugby but also because I am so passionate about the Western Force and the people of Perth.

“What we want to do going forward is develop a fantastic learning environment that people want to be a part of and that embraces the unique pioneering spirit that Western Australians will be proud of.”

Cotter confirms Gray's return

Scotland Head Coach Vern Cotter has confirmed defensive contact consultant Richie Gray will return to his back room staff for the 2016 Tests and 2017 RBS 6 Nations.

Gray was part of last season’s 6 Nations and Summer Test preparations following a three-season spell as South Africa’s Specialist Breakdown Coach – finishing for bronze at Rugby World Cup 2015 – as well as the ‘Blitzbokke’ 7s side.

Gray will work alongside Defence Coach Matt Taylor in the build-up to the two competitive campaigns.

Bryce Hegarty re-signs with Waratahs

Waratahs have boosted their playing stocks for 2017 with the announcement of flyhalf, Bryce Hegarty re-signing for a further season.

The 24-year-old utility back has previous Super Rugby experience, having played 33 matches for the Melbourne Rebels, securing 49 points for the Club, including seven tries.

He joined the Waratahs after a stint overseas in the Japanese Top League.

Kyle Godwin signs two-year deal with Brumbies

Godwin has agreed to link up with the Brumbies on a two-year deal.

Born in Zimbabwe, he has been one of the Western Force’s best players since making his Super Rugby debut as a 19-year old in 2012 against the Queensland Reds.

The 22-year old was called into the Wallabies training squad this week ahead of Saturday night’s test against the Springboks at Suncorp Stadium.