Worcester Warriors have announced that powerhouse centre Dale Rasmussen has signed a new one-year deal, with the option for a second year, to remain at Sixways Stadium.
Former Samoa international Rasmussen - who has made nine appearances for his country - joined Warriors in 2004 from Exeter Chiefs and has become a key individual at the club.
Rasmussen has become a first choice centre at the club and an almost ever present in the starting line-up over the last six seasons, making a total of 23 appearances last term that included 19 starts.
The ultra consistent 32-year-old is also a leader away from the action as a superb role model for younger players who epitomises club values with his attitude and work ethic.
The Auckland-born centre, famed for his big tackling by supporters, had attracted interest from other clubs but wanted to remain at Warriors and a club that has become his home.
"I'm ecstatic to sign. It's quite emotional to recommit to the club," said Rasmussen, who has made a total of 145 appearances and scored 14 tries for the club.
"I didn't want my career to end with Warriors in the manner it has this season, it wasn't the way I wanted to go out.
"I hold the club and its ambition close to my heart - this is my club and all I want is success here.
"It's been a frustrating and disappointing time, but now I'm excited about being involved in the return and rebuilding the club. Getting us back to the Premiership and then really kicking on from there.
"I can honestly say I feel better than I did two years ago," added Rasmussen. "You have the best back room team here to look after you and stay on top of things. I guess with age comes wisdom too and you know your body and what you have to and when.
"I now want to continue to improve and have a big influence on the team next year and the promotion back to the Guinness Premiership again."
Warriors Coach Andrew Stanley, who has been placed in charge of first team affairs in the interim period following the departure of Mike Ruddock, was delighted that Rasmussen has agreed a new deal.
"Dale is the type of person that represents a lot of good things about Worcester," said Stanley.
"We need those qualities and the kind of culture that Dale creates in and around the club - that will be the difference between us moving straight back up or another season in the Championship.
"His enthusiasm and desire to get better as a player, in everything he does, is something that rubs off on other players, especially the young players coming through.
"Dale is a great role model and we look forward to him being a key part of next season and our bid to come back stronger."
