Cottrell signs new Force deal
Western Force has retained tough back-rower Angus Cottrell for another two years.
Cottrell had been chased by the Queensland Reds but as revealed by thewest.com.au in May, he wanted to stay at the Force where his career has taken off.
He had been tipped to make the Wallabies squad for the French Test series before breaking his left ankle against the Crusaders.
Cottrell, 24, started in all but one match before suffering the season ending injury.
The signing adds to the Force back-row strength where Wallabies Matt Hodgson and Ben McCalman are both signed until the end of next year.
Cottrell is the son of Nev Cottrell Jr, who played for Queensland in the late 1970’s, and grandson of the late Nev "Notchy" Cottrell, a hooker who captained the Wallabies in two Tests against the British and Irish Lions in 1950.
He is in his third season with the Force after being recruited from Brisbane club, Wests.
Cottrell said he was looking forward to building on what had been achieved by the Force this season.
“I love coming here every day and I didn’t want to go anywhere else to be honest,” he said.
“We’ve got a great culture here; there are no egos and everyone wants to chip in and play for their mate. This is a fantastic group to be playing and training with, we’ve got a fantastic bunch of supporters, and playing for the Force is something I’d love to do long-term.
“I feel like I’ve come a long way since I really started learning my trade here three years ago. I know I’ve still got a long way to go but playing alongside guys like Ben McCalman, Hodgo [Hodgson] and Hughy [Hugh McMeniman] has been great for my rugby. They make it very easy for me.
“This year has been a special year. What we’ve done on-field has been great, but it’s the confidence and trust that we’ve had in each other that’s made this my one of most enjoyable years playing rugby.
Coach Michael Foley said Cottrell would continue to develop into an important member of the Force squad.
“Gussy has been excellent for us this season and it was disappointing to see him sustain an injury when he was playing with such consistency,” he said.
“His aggressive approach combined well with Hodgo and Ben McCalman in what has been an excellent back row for us this year.
“We’re very pleased to have Gus re-commit to the club beyond this season. He constantly wants to improve and is learning to hold himself to high standards, which is important as we look to keep moving forward as a team.”
