MAFI EXTENDS STAY IN PERTH
EMIRATES WESTERN FORCE MEDIA RELEASE
Thursday, 31 May 2012
The Emirates Western Force squad for 2013 has been further bolstered by the extension of versatile back Alfie Mafi’s contract for a further year.
The 23 year old has had one of his best seasons on the field in 2012 earning a cap in every game so far with 11 of those in the starting line-up. His speed and agility in the back line has been a standout feature, creating plenty of attacking options for the Emirates Western Force.
Emirates Western Force ‘A’ Coach Andrew Scotney said the extension of Mafi’s contract was fantastic for the club.
“Alfie gives the team a lot of thrust and speed from the back field and it’s an attribute that’s vital for players in the back three at Super Rugby level,” said Scotney.
“He’s shown increased versatility this year in starting the majority of his games at fullback after initially coming to the club as a centre and winger, so he’s shown the ability to perform well at the Super Rugby level in another position which is a credit to him.”
The extension of Mafi’s contract further reinforces the hard work the club is putting into retaining the current players and strengthening its stocks with new players.
“It’s a two way street for someone like Alfie who is on his third franchise within Australia and is looking for stability himself in trying to find a place where he can play good consistent football to improve and get regular starts; he’s found that here,” Scotney said.
“The key for Alfie will be to continue his improvement in 2013 and try and continue to make the most of his ability because everyone here believes that he is someone who can contribute significantly to the Emirates Western Force moving forward.”
Mafi is delighted to have extended his stay with the Perth club and is keen to continue improving his game for his teammates and coaching staff.
“I’m happy with my performances this year starting in 11 games but I still feel like I haven’t really shown what I can do so hopefully with my change in mindset of running more instead of kicking will help me,” said Mafi.
“I love Perth, it’s a beautiful place and I would be very keen to live here after footy so I’m enjoying it.
“I’ve known quite a few of the Emirates Western Force boys since school so it’s great to be surrounded by the players that I played schools rugby with and have known for five to ten years now.”
After short stints with the Brumbies (7 games) and Waratahs (9 games), Mafi has settled at the Emirates Western Force and is looking forward to forging a long career in the west.
“It wasn’t ideal for me to be jumping from club to club so it’s good to settle in somewhere that I can call home and push myself for a regular start so it’s massive for me,” Mafi said.
“I’m focussed on playing good footy here and hopefully can extend my contract in years to come.”
