Stander re-commits to the Western Force

South African born back rower Brynard Stander has committed to playing Super
Rugby in Perth for the Western Force for two more seasons.

The Durban-born, former Natal Sharks representative joined the Western Force
for the 2014 Super Rugby season, and has amassed 20 caps for the Western Australian
club over the past two seasons.

The versatile back-rower, renowned for his strong defence and high work rate,
has been a regular fixture in the Western Force’s match day squad for the past
two years.

The re-signing follows the news of Francois van Wyk and Marcel Brache’s recommitment
last week, and coincides with the start of the Western Force’s membership season,
with a range of new membership options and improvements – including free memberships
for children under 16, and priority access to the Wallabies Test match at the
‘Force Field’ (nib Stadium) – for the 2016 Super Rugby season.

Stander, whose 2015 campaign was disrupted by ankle and shoulder injuries,
says he’s excited about continuing with the Western Force.

“The first two years here have flown by and it’s great to have another
chance to stay on,” he said. “Personally, I didn’t feel like I had
the best season last year with it being disrupted by injuries, so it’s great
that the boys and coaches have the faith to re-sign me and I’m very keen to
start season fresh and repay that faith.

“I’m very excited about the next two seasons. I love living in Perth,
I feel like I’ve settled here well and this has become home for me now.

“This is a great squad to be a part of and I feel like we have a really
good balance in our dynamic back row.

“After debriefing our last season, we recognise how important it is that
we’re carrying the right attitude into every contest next season. While we were
obviously disappointed, it’s only made us more hungry for next year when we
get a chance to make it right.”

Western Force Head Coach Michael Foley says Stander is a member of a high-quality
back-row unit at the club.

“Brynard’s power and physicality are a point of difference and over the
last two seasons, he’s developed a good understanding of all three back row
roles,” he said. “He has a burning desire to win and an ambition to
see the club become successful.”

Western Force memberships are now available for the 2016 season! Click here
for more information or to get yours now!

Profile
Name: Brynard Stander
Born: 27/04/1990, Durban (South Africa)
Position: No.8/flanker
Club: Nedlands
Height: 190cm
Weight: 97kg
Super Rugby caps: 20
Super Rugby points: 5 (1 try)
Super Rugby debut: 2014 v Waratahs, Sydney
Representative Rugby: 2014-2015 Western Force, 2014 Perth Spirit, 2012-2013
Sharks (Vodacom Cup), 2012 Sharks (Currie Cup), 2011 Sharks Under 21, 2008-2009
Sharks Under 19