Hodgson extends time in Australian Rugby

Qantas Wallabies and Western Force backrower Matt Hodgson has extended his contract with the Perth side until the end of the 2016 Asteron Life Super Rugby Season.

The veteran backrower was part of the Force’s first ever game in 2006 and has notched up 11 Wallabies caps since his debut against Fiji in 2010.

After a three year absence from the gold jersey, Hodgson made a sensational return to the international fold in 2014, playing Tests against South Africa, Argentina, New Zealand, Wales and France.

Currently sidelined by a hamstring injury, the 33-year-old Force Captain is excited about the prospect of remaining a ‘one club’ man.

“Despite being injured, the body feels great, my mind feels fresh and I’m excited about finishing what we’ve started in the last couple of years,” he said.

“To be able to keep the majority of the team together is a goal we’ve had and we’ve got the players and the depth to go forward in the competition.”

Hodgson’s main motivation is to lead the Western Force deep into the Super Rugby competition and the 113 cap veteran says that he is enjoying the game more than ever.

“I started at the club in 2005 and I still don’t feel like I’ve achieved what I’ve set out to do which is to win through the second half of the competition and play finals rugby.”

“Last year gave us a taste of what can be achieved and while we’ve had a challenging start to this season, there’s still a lot of potential within the group and the opportunity to finish the season strongly.

“With the added responsibility of the leadership role, I feel like I’ve been challenged again and it’s something I’m excited about. I’m really enjoying my rugby and as long as that’s the case, I’ll continue to play.

Hodgson had the honour of captaining the Qantas Wallabies in their 40-36 win over the Barbarians at Twickenham on the 2014 Spring Tour.

Matt Hodgson – Wallaby No. 841

Height: 1.85m

Weight: 103kg

Born: 25/06/1981

Test caps: 11

Test debut: 2010 v Fiji, Canberra