0
By RugbyWA Media, Josh Zimmerman
Richard Brown celebrates
Emirates Western Force and Wallabies No.8 Richard Brown believes his decision to move to Perth from Queensland to be a part of the inaugural 2006 Emirates Western Force side was one of the best decision he has made professionally and personally.
Speaking on the eve of his 50th appearance for the club, which will come on Saturday night against the Blues at nib Stadium, Brown was full of praise for the club and thankful for the opportunities it had afforded him.
“I’ve been here for a long time and I didn’t think I’d get this far so 50 is fairly important,” Brown said.
“I’ve grown as a person and a player over the years which is something that I’ve got the club to thank for.”
Brown, or Brownie as he is known around the club, has anchored the scrum for the Emirates Western Force since the franchise joined the Super Rugby competition in 2007. His outstanding work ethic and never say die attitude are a reflection of the values established at the club.
A standout season for the Emirates Western Force in 2008 catapulted Brown into Wallabies selection and he made his debut against the All Blacks in that year’s Tri Nations decider. Since then Brown has earned 23 test caps and firmly established himself as a key component of the national side.
A debut for the Emirates Western Force in the club’s inaugural match as well as the side that registered the club’s first home win are some of the vivid memories for Brown however the recent move a rectangular home ground is something that rates just as highly.
“I think the most recent highlight is moving to nib Stadium and playing at a rectangular stadium here in Perth,” he said.
“I think that’s been the biggest step for the club so far.”
While close mate and fellow backrower David Pocock will miss the milestone match after injuring his knee, Brown said the depth and leadership from the likes of Matt Hodgson would ensure that part of the ground is running at full steam.
“A John Eales medalist is hard to replace,” Brown said.
“Although if you’re going to do it you’d probably do it with someone whose won the club’s Players’ Player two years in a row, Matt Hodgson, so that’s how we’ll do it.”
http://www.westernforce.com.au/NewsE...7/Default.aspx
Reply With Quote
Was the wait worth it - Ya betta baby 
Originally Posted by travelling_gerry
