The Force have re-signed the youngster despite interest from the Queensland Reds.
Western Force have re-signed young back-rower Angus Cottrell for two years.
The 24-year-old started in all but one match for the Force this season before suffering a broken ankle against the Crusaders last month.
He had been chased by the Queensland Reds, but revealed in May he wanted to stay in Perth.
“I love coming here every day and I didn’t want to go anywhere else to be honest,” he said.
“We’ve got a great culture here; there are no egos and everyone wants to chip in and play for their mate. This is a fantastic group to be playing and training with, we’ve got a fantastic bunch of supporters, and playing for the Force is something I’d love to do long-term.
“I feel like I’ve come a long way since I really started learning my trade here three years ago. I know I’ve still got a long way to go but playing alongside guys like Ben McCalman, Hodgo [Hodgson] and Hughy [Hugh McMeniman] has been great for my rugby – they make it very easy for me.
“This year’s been a special year. What we’ve done on-field [in terms of results] has been great, but it’s the confidence and trust that we’ve had in each other that’s made this my one of most enjoyable years playing rugby.”
Coach Michael Foley said Cottrell had developed into a key squad member.
“Gussy has been excellent this season and it was disappointing to see him sustain an injury when he was playing with such consistency,” Foley said.
“His aggressive approach combined well with Hodgo and Ben McCalman in what has been an excellent back row this year.”
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