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Three-Test Wallaby Brett Sheehan will join the Emirates Western Force after agreeing to a two-year deal with the club.
The Geraldton born scrumhalf is a veteran of 48 Super Rugby games with the Waratahs and the Reds.
RugbyWA CEO Greg Harris said signing Sheehan had been a priority for the club for the 2010 season.
“Negotiations with Brett and his manager started about four weeks ago, and we understand that these decisions take time. We see Brett as someone who will add a great deal to the club, both on and off the field,” Harris said.
“Brett will bring plenty of experience to the Emirates Western Force, and the quality of his play at the Waratahs has been outstanding. He has forced the incumbent Wallabies halfback to the bench in recent weeks. That says much about his character and ability.”
A former Rugby League prospect with the Brisbane Broncos, Northern Eagles and South Sydney, the 29 year old returned to the 15-a-side code in 2004 with club side Warringah and had an immediate impact.
Sheehan was recruited by the Reds for the 2005 Super 12 season, during which he played four times for Queensland. He then returned to NSW, where he went to school at St Josephs College, and has added 44 more caps to his name.
He made his Wallaby debut against South Africa in 2006, and added two more caps in 2008.
Sheehan, who is currently on tour in South Africa with the Waratahs, said it was a relief to have made the decision to head west and was excited about the upcoming seasons.
“I am really looking forward to joining the Force, it will be a great challenge given the new look backline we will have in 2010,” Sheehan said.
“I have really enjoyed being a Waratah, and competing with ‘Burgo’ (Luke Burgess) for the starting halfback role. Obviously we still have plenty of work to do at NSW this season and I remain committed to contributing to a successful finale to this year’s Super 14s.”
Brett Sheehan
Position: Scrumhalf
Physical: 173cm, 90kg
Age: 29 (Born 16/9/1979, Geraldton, WA)
Super Caps: 48 (44 for Waratahs, 4 for Reds)
Super Points: 5 (1 try)
Super Debut: 2005 v Bulls (for Reds)
Test Caps: 3
Test Points: 0
Wallaby debut: 2006 v South Africa