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Force have plans for Haylett-Petty

Western Force coach Michael Foley has clear plans for Dane Haylett-Petty, who has signed a new one-year deal at the club.

He spent last season on the wing but will wear No.15 next year after incumbent full-back Jayden Hayward left for Italian club Benetton.

Foley brought Haylett-Petty, 25, back to the Force last year after three seasons with Biarritz and believes the time in France has made him a better player.

"He left here as a young guy and is now older and wiser. We're excited about him as a 15 next season," Foley said.

"Playing in the French competition, a lot is left up to the individual to make decisions and it can be a bit of trial and error.

"Players that don't make it can get cut pretty quickly but Dane survived there a number of years."

Haylett-Petty, a former Hale School student, graduated from the RugbyWA academy to the Australian 2008 and 2009 Junior World Cup squad and spent 2008-2010 at the Force. He is looking forward to the new challenge.

"I felt like I was starting to find some form at the end of the season. I'm really looking forward to getting back next year and pushing for a place in that back three again," he said.

"It's been great to come into such a great group of boys here at the Force.

"The group is very tight, the culture is really strong and continues to grow, and it's just a pleasure to come to training."