Excitement is building in Perth as Western Force recruit Nathan Hastie prepares for a potential debut with his hometown team in the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific season. The scrum-half, who grew up watching Force games at HBF Park, is on the cusp of realising a childhood dream after nearly a decade playing rugby in New Zealand.
A Full Circle Moment for Perth-Born Talent
Nathan Hastie's journey to the Western Force is a story of homecoming and ambition. As a young fan, he idolised legends like Nathan Sharpe, Matt Giteau, Nick Cummins, and David Pocock while attending matches with his father at HBF Park. Now, after securing a spot in the Force's pre-season trial against the Brumbies at Scotch College, he could debut against the same opponent in the Super Rugby Pacific opener at that very stadium.
"It felt like a full circle moment, to come and get the opportunity to play here," Hastie reflected. "I was really grateful for the opportunity to come back." His quick integration into the squad since joining from the Highlanders has impressed coaches, earning him a retained position among nine players for the final pre-season match.
From New Zealand Sojourn to Western Force Ambitions
Hastie's path to professional rugby involved significant sacrifice. At age 15, he left Perth to pursue his career in New Zealand, completing his schooling on the north island before studying sport at Otago University. "It was pretty tough, but we've got a lot of family over in Dunedin as well, so it definitely helped," he acknowledged, highlighting the balance he sought between rugby and education.
His rugby development flourished in New Zealand, where he played National Provincial Championship Rugby with Otago before being signed by the Highlanders. Ironically, Hastie made his Super Rugby debut against the Western Force in Perth, adding a poetic layer to his eventual return.
Competing for the Number Nine Jersey
Now back in Western Australia, Hastie faces stiff competition in a deep scrum-half roster that includes Henry Robertson and Agustin Moyano. His determination to secure the Force's starting number nine jersey is matched by broader aspirations, including potential Wallabies selection. "Every young, aspiring rugby player in Australia wants to play for the Wallabies; it would mean a lot," he stated, having previously represented New Zealand under-20s.
Force Bolster Squad with Wallabies Stars
The Western Force are strengthening their lineup for the pre-season clash against the Brumbies, adding five Wallabies to the mix. Captain Jeremy Williams and star flanker Carlo Tizzano headline the inclusions, alongside reigning Nathan Charles Medallist Tom Robertson, back-rower Nick Champion de Crespigny, and centre Hamish Stewart. These players were rested from last week's victory over the Queensland Reds.
However, the squad faces some availability challenges. Deputy fly-half Alex Harford is sidelined with a shoulder injury sustained against the Reds, while Nic Dolly (knee), Darcy Swain (calf), Dylan Pietsch (Wallabies return to play protocols), and Feao Fotuaika (foot) remain unavailable for selection.
As the Super Rugby Pacific season approaches, Nathan Hastie's journey from Perth fan to potential Force debutant encapsulates the passion and dedication driving Australian rugby's next generation.
