Matt Hodgson said of his decision that "the longer-term development of this side was a big motivation for re-signing" © Getty Images

Enlarge

Related Links

Matches: Queensland Reds 12 - 19 Force

Players/Officials: Matt Hodgson

Tournaments/Tours: Super Rugby

Teams: Australia | Force

Wallabies flanker Matt Hodgson wants to finish his career as a one-club player after re-signing with Western Force for a further two Super Rugby seasons.

The foundation player, who has played 85 matches for the Force since making his debut in 2006, had received tentative offers to continue his career in Japan after the current season. But Hodgson said he and his family were happily settled in Perth and didn't want to move with the birth of his first son expected next week.

"My wife and I love living in Perth and we didn't want to go anywhere else," Hodgson said. "I've been here for eight years now. We've got a baby on the way and I'd love to be part of the first father-son rule for the Force. Being part of the longer-term development of this side was a big motivation for re-signing. While it may take a few years, I'm really keen to be part of that and be part of the club improving each year and growing into a successful club.

"The lure of playing 100 caps for the Force is another motivation and it'd be a great achievement to be the first person to achieve that for Western Australian rugby. Having begun my Super Rugby career here, it's great to have the opportunity to end my career here in the west. And my life after rugby is definitely in Western Australia."

Hodgson, who has won six Test caps for the Wallabies, was named Force captain late last year, after Nathan Sharpe's retirement.

Force officials hope Hodgson's decision to stay will convince other players to re-sign.

"As we look to build our side over the next three seasons, it's a significant boost to have 'Hodgo' on board during this period," Force coach Michael Foley said. "He's been heavily involved in helping develop the way we want to play and leading the standards we've set for this side, which is crucial in helping us to grow to become the team we want to become."