Sheehan bids Force farewell
As the Emirates Western Force prepares for its final match of the season against the Brumbies at nib stadium on Saturday night, Brett Sheehan prepares his Australian rugby swansong.
The evergreen halfback, whose career in Australian top flight rugby has stretched well over a decade, will blow full time on his four-year stint at the Force following this weekend’s fixture.
Sheehan made the move across the Nullarbor in 2010, after six seasons with the Waratahs, in a bid to tie down a starting position and add to his international Test tally.
“I found a home here and from the first day I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the lifestyle,” he said.
“It’s a great place to live and the people are really friendly, and it’s been fantastic to stay involved in Super Rugby.”
The Western Australian-born Sheehan prospered from the opportunity, adding another three Test caps, including his run-on debut, through strong Super Rugby performances.
Sheehan admits there has been some testing times in his stay at the Force, but has loved the experience as a whole.
“I’ve met and played with some great people and have thoroughly enjoyed my time,” he said.
“Personally I’ve felt as though I had two of my better years in 2011 and 2012 and I’ve always prided myself on giving 100 per cent in every game, and I felt like earning Wallaby selection again was a fantastic reward.”
With potential offers to continue his playing career overseas, Sheehan says he is in no hurry to make a decision on his playing future and is happy with life – with fiancée Laura and son Brodie – in Western Australia.
“Perth is home now for me and I’d really like to stay here,” he said.
“I’m actually going to enjoy having some time off, it’s time to have a break for a couple of months and rejuvenate the body.
“There are a couple of business opportunities I’m looking at here in Perth as well as overseas options, but for the immediate future it will just be about spending time with my family and enjoying some time off.”
This week against the Brumbies, the halfback is determined to leave every ounce of energy on the pitch in order to make his final Emirate Western Force appearance one to remember.
“The boys are pumped, it’s the last game of our season and for a few boys it’s their last game for the club,” he said.
“It’s going to be a great battle and if we can stick it to them early and put some pressure of their key players we may be able to get a result.”
The match kicks-off at 7.45pm on Saturday night at nib stadium.
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