The Western Force are excited to announce the re-signing of back-rower Nick Champion de Crespigny who has committed to the Club until the end of 2028.
The physical 28-year-old forward joined the Force in the off-season after three years with French Top 14 club Castres Olympique and has made an instant impact.
The ex-Sydney University forward starred during last year’s South Africa spring tour before a strong start to his maiden Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
Champion de Crespigny has started all three games this season, barely missing a minute, notching up 53 tackles in defence with 20 carries and five defenders beaten in attack.
Force general manager of rugby Chris Goodman was thrilled with the extension of Champion de Crespigny’s deal, which he said is another sign of the Club’s future planning.
“First and foremost, he’s a quality human," Goodman said. “He’s really stood out since joining the Force and we quickly knew he was someone who would continue to add value around guys like Carlo Tizzano, Ben Donaldson and Harry Potter in the long term.
"Having Nick extend until 2028 is really important as we look to build long-term cohesion within our team. “
Goodman added about Champion de Crespigny: “He’s provided a week-in, week-out professional that we need. He’s got a hard edge to him. He likes hitting bodies.
“He’s got a good motor on him and he’s professional on and off the field.
“He adds a lot of value around the club in terms of leadership and personality.”
Champion de Crespigny has settled well in Perth since moving to WA from France in mid-2024.
He is enjoying what’s building at the Force under head coach Simon Cron and the coaches whom he believes are getting the best out of him.
“I’m really happy at the Force,” he said. “This is a club moving in the right direction. I feel a lot of support from the coaching staff and the Club in general.
“I feel like they’re making me the best player and person I can be which is exactly why I came here. I want to invest back in the Club and hopefully give back to the fans.”
Champion de Crespigny added that his long-term extension was geared towards the Force project and the exciting events coming in Australian rugby.
“It’s an exciting time to be in Australian rugby in general with the British and Irish Lions Tour and 2027 World Cup in Australia coming up,” Champion de Crespigny said.
“But it’s also an exciting time to be part of the Western Force. Simon Cron has created a great squad and culture around the organisation, with a view to sustained success into the future.
“Signing on long term allows me to make my own imprint at the club and try to assist in moving the club the right direction.”
