The Rugby Foundation of Western Australia, in partnership with RugbyWA and Western Force, brought together generations of players, administrators, supporters and partners on Friday to celebrate 20 seasons of the Western Force and the remarkable rugby community that continues to drive the game forward across the state.
Held at The University Club of Western Australia, the event reflected on the journey of the Western Force from its inception in 2004 and debut in 2006 through to the present day, while highlighting the importance of investing in grassroots rugby and future generations of players.
Guests heard from key figures in the club’s history, including inaugural Western Force Chairman Geoff Stooke AM OAM CitWA, RugbyWA Chairman and former Western Force player John Welborn, and former Force captain Ian Prior, who shared stories of the club’s formation, growth and resilience.
Throughout the afternoon, speakers reflected on the role of the Sea of Blue and the wider rugby community in the club’s journey, highlighting the strong connection between community rugby and the professional game that has underpinned the Force’s success over the past two decades.
A past player panel featuring Scott Staniforth, Kieran Longbottom, Chris Heiberg and Nic White provided plenty of laughs and memories, while former Force players Junior Pelesasa and Kyle Godwin spoke about the pathways and community programs helping develop the next generation of players across Western Australia.
Special guest and speaker, the Honourable Roger Cook MLA, Premier of Western Australia, shared his own experiences growing up playing rugby in WA and spoke about the important role sport plays in bringing communities together.
RugbyWA Chief Executive Officer Simon Taylor said the luncheon was a powerful reminder that rugby's success in Western Australia has always been built on the people behind the game.
"The stories shared throughout the afternoon highlighted just how special rugby's journey in Western Australia has been over the last twenty years," he said.
"From the people who first believed a professional team could succeed on the west coast, to the volunteers, coaches, referees and players helping grow the game today, every part of that journey matters.
"The community game and professional game go hand in hand, and events like this help celebrate that connection while investing in the future of rugby across Western Australia."
Funds raised through the event will support the Rugby Foundation of Western Australia, helping drive investment intro grassroots participation, community programs, coach and referee development, and player pathways throughout the state.
RugbyWA extends its sincere thanks to the Honourable Roger Cook MLA, the Western Australian Government, Tattarang, Gallagher, all speakers and panellists, and the many supporters who contributed through donations, the auction and raffle, and by simply attending.
Photos from the event can be viewed here.
To learn more about the Rugby Foundation of WA, become a member or make a donation, visit the Foundation website.
