The Western Force is thrilled to announce the addition of an annual Spring Series, kicking off with the Cheetahs in late August.
The Cheetahs hometown of Bloemfontein will host two matches, followed by two games in Perth in September. Venues are yet to be locked in as HBF Park remains unavailable due to the FIFA World Cup.
Similar to the D-Rock Japanese tour initiated in November last year, this series aims to form long-lasting relationships and 'fill the gap' of high-level rugby downtime in Australia.
Western Force Head Coach Simon Cron will take many advantages from this annual tour, stating it’s essential for players to propel their development beyond clubland.
“Adding a third-tier competition is critical to give a pathway for players to step up from club rugby. It will give these players a chance to learn and grow as well as test themselves at a higher level,” Cron attested.
“It is a direct steppingstone into the Western Force and we have to create this competition if we are serious about development of players.”
“This allows players to prove themselves at a higher level before stepping up into the professional environment of Super Rugby, benefiting all involved.”
This is an opening the Force has been yearning for since their reinstatement and the final approval granted by the Western Force Board of Directors was the final step in making the series a reality.
General Manager of Rugby Matt Hodgson has been liaising with the Cheetahs for many seasons, so to see the series eventuate, Hodgson admits, is an excellent opportunity for players and supporters alike.
"With Super Rugby being such a short series, we need to look at adding several games to build team cohesion and opportunities for players to perform at a high level of rugby throughout the end of the year," Hodgson pointed out.
"Reesjan Pasitoa is a perfect example of why these matches are needed. Instead of waiting another six months, this gives him a number of games to target as a return and play, progressing him forward for the Super season next year."
"This series also benefits players that don't play many minutes in Super Rugby through selection and provides recruitment prospects to trial players for the 2024 season and beyond"
Providing more matches for our Members is also highly important, along with reconnecting with Perth's rich South African supporter base.
"When the Force played the Cheetahs and Stormers in the past, there was a strong presence of South African supporters. So, we are eager to see them support rugby in our state again."
The series will align with Super Rugby standards, promoting highly competitive match day experience.
"All matches will be closely aligned to Super Rugby standards. With both teams preparing for upcoming seasons. There may be slight variations, but the aim is to keep the structure as close as possible."
CEO of the Free State Cheetahs, Ross van Reenen is equally passionate for this series to kick-off commenting on the valuable opportunity the games provide for his players.
“We are incredibly excited about the significant opportunity to partner with the Western Force. As former Super Rugby opponents, previous encounters were always highly competitive and emotionally charged,” said Ross van Reenen.
“This is a valuable opportunity for the Toyota Cheetahs to face a different style of rugby and to open rugby doors to the South.”
Currently the Force are in discussions with European and Japan based teams for the continuation of this annual Spring Series.
Further information will be shared on West Australian matches closer to August.
