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Cape Town - The Waratahs announced on Tuesday that hooker Damien Fitzpatrick has extended his contract with the Sydney-based outfit until the 2019 season.
The 29-year-old said the decision to continue playing his rugby for the Waratahs was an easy one.
“I’m a proud New South Welshman so the decision was an easy one as I want to remain a Waratah," he told the Waratahs' official website.
"I enjoy being part of this group, we have a great squad, a valuable mix of super talent and hard workers. I know how determined the team is to go one step further next year and bring home the Super Rugby title, and I want to play my part in that,” he said.
"2018 was about delivering on our potential, we did that in patches but we know that we can do even better next year. We played some quality attacking rugby this year that I know the fans enjoyed watching."
Fitzpatrick reached the milestone of 50 games for his State in 2018.
"That was certainly a proud moment, it didn't come easy for me and that made it all more the special," he added.
Waratahs assistant coach (forwards), Simon Cron, said Fitzpatrick adds so much more to the team.
“Fitzy is a great asset to the team in terms of leadership and experience," he said.
"He has shown his importance to our squad in consistently performing week in week out and I’m looking forward to seeing him take another step up next year.
"Having Fitzy and Tolu (Latu) push each other is really important to the make-up of the squad. We want that kind of competition in every position and then combine that with JP Sauni who will also be wanting to apply pressure and take his opportunities when they come.
"They all get on well and will help each other to get better and it’s enjoyable to watch them want to do well for each other."
Fitzpatrick has also been confirmed as captain of Sydney for this year’s National Rugby Championship (NRC).
"Playing in the Sydney representative colours will be special for the team," he said.
"To bring back the traditional Sydney team colours will add new fire to the Sydney versus Country rivalry and I cannot wait.
"The NRC is a pathway for our players and brings together the talent of club rugby, emerging and Super Rugby players. It’s an opportunity for players to play well at a new level, put their hands up and to get noticed by the Super Rugby coaches."
