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New Western Force signing Chase Tiatia to bring X-factor to the backline

Nick TaylorThe West Australian
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Bay of Plenty's Chase Tiatia will join the Force next season.
Camera IconBay of Plenty's Chase Tiatia will join the Force next season. Credit: Michael Bradley/Getty Images

Western Force have added an X-factor to their backline with utility back Chase Tiatia signing from the Chiefs on a two-year deal.

The former Samoan under-20 representative, who was also at the Hurricanes, can play full-back, fly-half and on the wing.

He has made 37 Super Rugby appearances - 16 for the Hurricanes and 21 for the Chiefs - since his debut three years ago.

He has a strong left foot kicking game and an exceptional counter-attack, both which will be valuable weapons for the Force.

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The 26-year-old said he was ready for a new chapter at the Force where he will reunite with attack assistant coach Mark Ozich, who coached him at schoolboy level.

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“It will be a new challenge and a new experience for me,” Tiatia said.

“I’ve been coached by Mark Ozich before and I really liked working with him.

“We caught up over the phone about the move and he spoke very highly of the program at the Force.

“It’s going to be really great to develop my game in Perth and get some consistent game time.

“I’m really excited about the whole experience and getting started.”

HAMILTON, NEW ZEALAND - APRIL 16: Chase Tiatia of the Chiefs ?  heads in for try later disallowed by the third referee during the Super Rugby Pacific match between the Moana Pasifika and the Chiefs at FMG Stadium Waikato on April 16, 2022 in Hamilton, New Zealand. (Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images)
Camera IconChase Tiatia is on his way to WA. Credit: Fiona Goodall/Getty Images

Ozich said was thrilled to have the 181cm and 93kg Tiatia join the Force.

“Chase brings excitement and X-factor,” Ozich said.

“He’s a player with strong versatility and a rugby brain that can play effectively across the backline.

“His ability to see and create opportunities, as well as beat defenders with the ball in hand, are all major strengths he will add to the squad.

“He’s a high energy and team-first character which aligns perfectly with the Force and how we go about our work.

“This is a great environment for him to grow as a player and showcase what he can do on the Super Rugby stage.”

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