Force lock in O'Connor
June 13 2008
Western Force lock Pat O'Connor has signed a new one-year deal that will see him remain with the franchise through the 2009 season.
O'Connor, who won six Super 14 caps in his rookie season of 2006, has taken the first step towards rebuilding his career after missing the entire 2007 and 2008 seasons through knee injuries.
"I really like being here, both in Perth and with the Western Force, and I'm excited about 2009," said O'Connor.
"The last 18 or so months have been very difficult and extremely frustrating; doing rehabilitation and watching the boys play some good footy.
"I'm extremely grateful to be given the opportunity to stay with the club," added the former Australian U21.
Born in Brisbane , O'Connor was a major find for the team in the 2006 season, starting at lock on three occasions after making his debut against the Waratahs at Subiaco Oval.
The 23-year-old's 2007 season ended before it began when he ruptured the cruciate ligament in his knee at training prior to the opening trial match.
Five months after the resulting surgery, the man they call "Beef" slipped and re-tore the ligament leading to a second knee reconstruction which crushed his hopes of a comeback this season.
Finally fit, O'Connor said he was delighted to be given the opportunity to mount a comeback to Super 14 rugby with a new Western Force contract.
"They've shown a lot of faith in me and I'm really hoping to repay that by getting back on the field and putting in some good performances," he said.
After watching Tom Hockings and Sam Wykes emerge as future representative players in the lock forward ranks at the club this season, O'Connor admits he will have to work hard to force his way back into the team.
"Sharpie (Nathan Sharpe) and Hocko (Tom Hockings) both had excellent seasons, and Sam Wykes is a terrific talent, so there's plenty of competition there for places in the team," said O'Connor.
"But I think it's a healthy situation for the team and I'm looking forward to the challenge of getting back into the side."