The Western Force have signed local product Marley Pearce on his first professioanl deal until the end of 2025.
Pearce has emerged as arguably one of the brightest front-row prospects in Australian Rugby since debuting as a 19-year-old.
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In his maiden Super season, he played nine games for the Force, including scoring during their win over the ACT Brumbies
From this, Pearce was selected in the Junior Wallabies squad for the U20 World Championships, with a suspension capping him to just three appearances.
Pearce, who won the club's Rising Star award, called the decision a 'no-brainer' as he reflects on his surreal rise.
"I didn't want to go anywhere else. This has been my club forever. It was a no-brainer to stay," Pearce said in a statement.
"Playing at home has been a huge highlight. Playing in front of my family, friends and the Sea of Blue has always been a dream, and I can't wait to get the opportunity to do it all again for the next two years.
"Signing my first professional contract is surreal, I know Cron wants the best for me and he believes in every player at this club. I want to go out there in every training, give it my all, and continue to play for the Force."
Pearce is likely set for a larger role in Simon Cron's plans in 2024 after Tom Robertson's injury and departure on sabbatical.
"Marley was given an opportunity this year and grabbed it with both hands," Cron remarked.
"He played nine games at the age of 19, which is unheard of in the front row in this competition.
"Marley is a great man who is always keen to learn and get better. This attitude towards training and his personal development is what we want here at the Force. We are looking forward to pushing him to another level in 2024."
Pearce will get the chance to test himself further when the Force face the Cheetahs in a four-game 'Spring Series.'
It will begin with a pair of games in Bloemfontein on Friday August 25 and Saturday September 2 before returning to WA for games in Mandurah (September 29) and Claremont (October 7)
