The Western Force has invested in the future of its front row stocks, with the signing of Australian U20s prop Shambeckler Vui for 2017.
Vui was a standout performer for the Australian U20s at the World Championships, with a barnstorming 50-metre try turning him into a social sensation.
The prop moved to Perth from Queensland to join the Future Force squad, a decision he said was now vindicated with his first full-time contract.
“It’s a dream come true to actually sign my first contract with the Force,” he said.
“I took a big leap of faith when I came out here and it has paid off. Hopefully I can get my first Super Rugby cap in 2017.”
“It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster ride in terms of leaving my family but I know this is the best place for me and what I am doing is the best thing for me and my family.”
Vui said spending time under the tutelage of the Force’s veteran front rowers had helped him prepare for the step up to Super Rugby.
“I think the thing that has helped me the most ever since I arrived in Perth has been guys like Tetera (Faulkner) and Pek (Cowan) sort of taking me under their wing and helping me improve,” he said.
“I can learn so much from them and they have been great from the start.
“There is a real buzz around the place at the moment with some new coaches, a lot of new players and some club players coming through like Michael Ruru. I think all the boys are excited about what we are building towards and ready for 2017.”Force coach Dave Wessels says Vui could be pushing for a run-on spot in 2017, if his form line from the Buildcorp NRC and UWA in the Pindan Premier club competition was anything to go by.
“Everyone can see that he has a huge amount of potential from his performances in the NRC but more than that Sham is a very family orientated and grounded young man who is going to add a lot of value both on and off the field.
“From our perspective Sham should be attacking this pre-season as if he wants that starting position because he certainly has the capability to be a starting Super Rugby player.”
