
Academy boys get the call
The Western Force have called up Future Force Academy products Carlo Tizzano and Ben Grant to their 2019 extended playing squad.
Tizzano has been one of the most spoken about names in the U20’s circuit, bouncing back from injury to have a highly successful year which saw him touring Europe with the Australian U18’s and Schoolboys squad.
The young 18-year-old says playing for the Force is a huge honour for himself and his family.
“It means a lot to be signed by the team I’ve grown up supporting and dreamt of playing for since I started playing rugby,” Tizzano says.
“It’s a huge honour for my family and me, and I can’t wait to rip in.
“Playing in all the junior state teams all the way from U14’s to U19’s, and now to be playing at an elite level, the feeling is indescribable.”
Initially attracted to the contact aspect of Rugby, Tizzano has had no regrets since making the move from AFL and says he is looking forward to continue learning from the team.
“Being young, I feel that it is best to be an open book and learn from the lads that have been there and done it before me,” he said.
“I’m really looking forward to playing with ‘Cocky’ [Chris Alcock]. We have played a few club games together (at UWA Rugby Club) and it was unreal for me to learn off someone of his calibre. We always push each other to see who can get more turnovers so I’m keen to keep that up.”
Growing up through the Rugby WA pathway Tizzano has found mentors in former Force captain Matt Hodgson and Harrison Orr.
“I have always looked up to Hodgo, he’s a legend of the club and it’s just a bonus he is the same position as me,” Tizzano said.
“It has been unreal having him around this year as he has helped me evolve my game, especially around the breakdown.
“Big Orrsy [Harrison Orr] has been really good to me over the course of this year and has pushed me to be better inside and out of rugby.”