Western Force sign Henry O'Donnell ahead of 2024 season

Western Force have announced the signing of Australia under 20 international Henry O’Donnell ahead of the 2024 season.

The 20-year-old joins the likes of Atu Moli, Lopefi Taifua, Harry Hoopert, Will Harris, Harry Potter, Ben Donaldson and Nic White in the recent signings made by the club ahead of the new season.

O’Donnell was part of the Young Wallabies squad at the 2023 World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa in which he scored four tries from five matches.

“After getting back from South Africa with the Under-20s the opportunity to make the move over to the Force popped up providing me with the opportunity to realise my dream of playing professional rugby and improve all aspects of my game for which I am very grateful,” O’Donnell told the club's official website.

“Through all my chats with Crono and talking to boys at Northern Suburbs, I’m excited to be coached by a group of staff focused on high standards, development and creating a winning culture.

“I have been watching all the recent signings and the squad Crono is building, which has excited me and cannot wait to get over to Perth to contribute my skills and work ethic to earn the respect of the boys but also the Sea of Blue fans in 2024.”

Force head coach Simon Cron is delighted with the addition of O’Donnell to the squad.

“We’re excited to have Henry O’Donnell come to the Western Force,” Cron said.

“Obviously he was a standout at Australian Under-20s playing at centre.

“It’s a genuine opportunity for Henry to come across and put some pressure on people. He’s really keen to learn, get better and hone his craft.

“His signing is another example of us looking at the future of the Western Force, mapping out a succession plan for these players to come through, play Super Rugby and keep the Western Force strong for years to come.”