Mafi to remain in Perth

The Western Force have announced that utility back Alfie Mafi has extended his contract with the Perth-based franchise by a year.

The Western Force have announced that utility back Alfie Mafi has extended his contract with the Perth-based franchise by a year. The 23-year-old has had one of his best Super Rugby seasons on the field in 2012, playing in every game so far with 11 of those in the starting line-up. Mafi is delighted to have extended his contract and is keen to continue improving his game. "I'm happy with my performances this year starting in 11 games but I still feel like I haven't really shown what I can do so hopefully with my change in mindset of running more instead of kicking will help me," he told the Western Force's official website. "I love Perth, it's a beautiful place and I would be very keen to live here after footy so I'm enjoying it. "I've known quite a few of the Emirates Western Force boys since school so it's great to be surrounded by the players that I played schools rugby with and have known for five to ten years now."

Regular start

After short stints with the Brumbies and Waratahs, Mafi has settled at the Force and is looking forward to forging a long career at the franchise. "It wasn't ideal for me to be jumping from club to club so it's good to settle in somewhere that I can call home and push myself for a regular start so it's massive for me," he revealed. "I'm focused on playing good footy here and hopefully extend my contract in years to come." Western Force assistant coach Andrew Scotney said the extension of Mafi's contract was a boost to the side. "Alfie gives the team a lot of thrust and speed from the back field and it's an attribute that's vital for players in the back three at Super Rugby level," he said. "The key for Alfie will be to continue his improvement in 2013 and try and continue to make the most of his ability because everyone here believes that he is someone who can contribute significantly to the Force moving forward," added Scotney.