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If the Western Force ever get bored of playing rugby, they could probably form a fairly competitive trivia team or, at the very least, a high-end consulting firm.
The Perth franchise has confirmed its leadership group for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, and it is a fascinating mix of academic high-achievers, World Cup veterans, and players who have worn the captain's armband for their country.
Jeremy Williams returns as the man in charge. The 25-year-old lock will skipper the side for a third consecutive season, providing the stability and "lead by example" grit that Simon Cron loves.
But it’s the supporting cast that catches the eye.
The Professor and The Playmakers Joining Williams in the inner sanctum are two new vice-captains: Ben Donaldson and the meteoric Nick Champion de Crespigny.
Champion de Crespigny’s rise has been nothing short of absurd. He joined the Force last year after three years in the French wilderness, won the Force Man Award, and somehow ended up captaining the Wallabies against Japan in just his third Test. He is also a RUPA board member and an academic high-achiever, proving that you can indeed have a brain and still enjoy running headfirst into other large men.
Then you have the "Wider Leaders," which includes the team's resident genius, Tom Robertson. The prop who is a qualified doctor and an Oxford University graduate brings a level of intellect to the front row usually reserved for chess grandmasters.
It’s not just about IQ points; it’s about silverware.
The leadership group is bolstered by Kurtley Beale (95 Wallabies caps) and former All Black George Bridge. Between them, they have seen everything the game has to throw at a player. Bridge has five Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders; Beale has a title with the Waratahs and three World Cups under his belt.
When you add reigning Nathan Sharpe Medalist Ben Donaldson to the mix, you have a leadership spine that covers every possible base: tactical nous, set-piece dominance, academic excellence, and the ability to win trophies.
Western Force Head Coach Simon Cron was clear on why this group was chosen.
"We took our time to pick those who we believe live and breathe the high level of standards," Cron said.
"Jeremy is a great captain but there are also a large number of brilliant leaders and technical drivers within our team."
The Force have often been accused of lacking direction in big moments. With a leadership group that features a Wallabies captain, an All Black winger, a 95-cap veteran, and an Oxford scholar, "lack of knowledge" shouldn't be an issue in 2026.
Now, they just have to win some rugby games.
Captain: Jeremy Williams
Vice-Captains: Ben Donaldson, Nick Champion de Crespigny
Wider Leaders: Kurtley Beale, George Bridge, Tom Robertson
The season kicks off on Valentine's Day (February 14) against the Brumbies at HBF Park. Nothing says romance like a scrum penalty.