Foley signs with Force

Former Wallabies hooker Michael Foley has officially signed a three- year deal as coach of the Western Force.

A former Wallabies assistant coach and Bath forwards coach, Foley joined the Waratahs coaching team in 2009 before taking charge of the team at the beginning of this season.

The former Wallaby hooker helped the Waratahs to the Super Rugby play-offs in 2010 and 2011.

The Perth-based Force managed just three wins and finished second last in the Super 15 standings this year.

Foley said that despite the recent setbacks, he is confident that with enough support the team can make big improvements in the future.

"This is an important period for the club and, while we're not looking to start from scratch, we're looking to relaunch the team," Foley said.

"There's no doubt the club has had a few setbacks in recent times but there are many people at the club, both on and off the field, that are very determined to see the Force successful.

"It's my role to set up a program that builds towards success. The coaching staff will be looking to promote an exciting brand of rugby that captures the imagination of our fans and wins games as well," he said. "To that end, we will be looking to recruit an attacking coach with a record of producing that style of game."

"While my expectations are realistic, I'm very excited about this challenge," he added.