Luke Burton
Western Force inside centre Luke Burton will remain with the Force for a further 2 seasons, extending his contract through to the end of the 2017 season.
The Perth-born 21-year-old made his debut for the Force last season, before adding 8 further caps – including 5 in the starting 15 – to his tally in 2015.
Burton, who has started at both fullback and inside centre this season, has forged a strong partnership with fellow local, Kyle Godwin, in the midfield over the past 3 matches.
The former Australian Under 20 representative says he’s excited about extending his stay at the club.
“I love being a part of the Force and I’m really stoked to be able to stay with the club for another 2 years,” he said.
“Perth is home for me and it’s great playing with this group of boys. I really enjoy playing under the coaching staff here – they’ve continued to develop my game and I like what they’re doing with the team.
“Growing up playing in Perth, my dream was always to play for the Force, and I feel very grateful and privileged to have the opportunity to be able to pull on the jersey and now stay for another 2 seasons.
“It’s an exciting to time to be part of the club, and it’s fantastic to see so many local guys now progressing through to the Force. I’ve been playing with Kane Koteka since we were 14, Dane Haylett-Petty was someone I looked up to when we were at school at Hale, and it’s great to have the opportunity to play alongside Kyle Godwin in the centres after playing against him at school.
“Having also played with Ollie Hoskins, Brad Lacey and Ross Haylett-Petty for the Aussie Under 20’s, it’s all a great endorsement for work that Dwayne Nestor (RugbyWA Junior Elite Coach) and the senior coaches are putting into developing the pathway here in Western Australia.
“I’ve taken a lot of confidence out of having the opportunity to play each week for the Force this season, and each opportunity only makes you more hungry for the next one.”
Western Force Head Coach Michael Foley says Burton continues to develop into an ever-reliable part of the Force backline.
“Burto’s a local boy who has learnt and risen to each opportunity he’s received,” he said.
“He displays a determination and decisiveness which allows him to create certainty and momentum for the boys around him.”
The Force will play 5 of its final 8 matches at home at the nib Stadium, starting with the DHL Stormers on Saturday 18 April.
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