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It is with considerable regret that RugbyWA has learnt of David Pocock’s decision to leave the Emirates Western Force at the conclusion of the 2012 FxPro Super Rugby season.
David has been a highly-valued member of the squad since joining the club as part of its foundation squad for the 2006 season.
In his time with us he has risen from a junior player to Emirates Western Force Captain to Wallaby Captain and we are proud that we have given him our full support for him to achieve this remarkable place in Australian rugby.
For the past six months, RugbyWA has done everything within its power to retain his services as a leading player within the Emirates Western Force.
David’s concerns were principally around the club’s inability to recruit high-profile players with this challenge highlighted by the recent opportunity presented to Will Genia which ultimately was unsuccessful in bringing him to WA. This difficulty has since been acknowledged by the Australian Rugby Union in their provision of further concessions for the Emirates Western Force regarding international players for the 2013 season and beyond.
While we are disappointed with his decision, we wish David well. RugbyWA has done everything to develop and support David throughout his time with the Emirates Western Force. This has included his development over 69 FxPro Super Rugby matches with the club, fast-tracking his appointment as captain of the side for 2012 and supporting his charity, Eightytwenty Vision.
In recent times, since the departure of Richard Graham, David has been part of the board and management process in recruiting players and identifying the next Emirates Western Force head coach.
Despite David’s announcement, the Emirates Western Force continues its preparations for the 2013 FxPro Super Rugby season. We will continue to boast one of the best forward packs in the competition, including excellent back row coverage through Test players Ben McCalman, Richard Brown and Matt Hodgson, and outstanding young players Angus Cotterill and Lachie McCaffrey.
In the modern rugby landscape, player movements are much more commonplace, leaving the door open for a return to their original club. David will always have a special place at the Emirates Western Force and should the opportunity arise down the track for him to return, we would welcome him back with open arms.