Western Force vice-captain Michael Wells announces retirement

Western Force vice-captain Michael Wells has announced his decision to retire from professional rugby following their final league game of the season.

Wells had a stellar Super Rugby career playing for Brumbies, Waratahs and Melbourne Rebels before joining Western Force ahead of the 2023 season. He also represented Australia Sevens side in 2014-2015 and 2018-2019 and was also a member of the Australia under-20 side which competed in the 2013 IRB Junior World Championship in France.

“Tonight marked the last time I stepped on the field as a professional rugby player,” Wells told the club's official website.

“What was a childhood dream has culminated in over 111 Super Rugby Games and seven HSBC Sevens Series tournaments over a 10-year career.

“What was a childhood dream became a singular focus and ambition. I would be lying to say that the setbacks and tribulations along the journey didn’t sow resentment and discontent as the experience of professional sport wasn’t living up to the expectation of a younger me.

“I am incredibly proud of my perseverance and resoluteness to keep working, training and subjecting myself to the aches and pains in order to get everything I could out of my career. I hope, in time, my son can see this as an example for how I would like him to grow up and the characteristics I hope he attains.

“Thank you to the teammates, coaches, trainers and medical staff that have been part of my journey. I have gained lifelong friends and memories that I will cherish."

Western Force finished the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific captains with just four wins from 14 matches.