Mandurah Pirates rugby product Tevin Ferris has staked his claim as one of the Western Force’s brightest young prospects after taking out the club’s rising star award for 2018.
The 22-year-old’s journey to playing for the Force has been a long one, but it was all made worthwhile when Ferris had his outstanding first season with the club honoured at their awards presentation over the weekend.
The tackle-breaking backrower was a crucial part of the Force’s World Series Rugby and National Rugby Championships campaigns in 2018, playing in every game after carving out his spot as a regular.
He also kitted up in a Wallabies Pre-Bledisloe Trial match, a huge achievement for someone who only made their professional rugby debut this year.
But despite his impressive year, Ferris said he was left gobsmacked when his name was called out as the club’s rising star.
“It definitely wasn’t something I expected,” he said.
“Even when I was handed the award I was just speechless – I just went into the night looking to enjoy myself.
“it’s such a special thing for me and my family.”
Ferris’ journey to the Force started in Mandurah where he played local junior rugby with the Pirates.
After making his mark as a serious up-and-comer he made the switch to Nedlands to play at the premier grade level, where he went on to captain the club before being selected into the Force’s academy program.
From there he teamed up with the Perth Spirit for their 2017 campaign before being offered a debut opportunity by the Force which he took with both hands.
Ferris himself describes the path as a “long journey”, one that he couldn’t have gone on if it weren’t for his grassroots days in Mandurah.
“I always think back to where it started with the Pirates and it’s pretty special, because I know I’ll always be part of the family there,” he said.
“Everything that club has done for me has helped me get to where I am today and that’s something that helps me moving forward.”
The ex-Mandurah Baptist College student holds dreams of one day donning a Wallabies jersey for Australia, a goal that looms as a reality on his current trajectory.
But for now Ferris is fixed on putting the Western Force on the map, and repaying the faith shown in him by the club.
“For them to give me an opportunity just as a young kid looking to play some footy is huge to me, so I want to do all I can to help get the Force and WA rugby to where it needs to be,” he said.
“We’ve got a lot of eyes on us every time we step out on the field so you’ve got to keep improving.
“Eventually it’d be a dream come true to play for the Wallabies, but for now I just want to develop my game and continue to play hard with my teammates.”