Chase Tiatia: Chiefs flyer on his way to the Western Force

David Skippers

Western Force have signed utility back Chase Tiatia, who joins them from the Chiefs ahead of the 2023 Super Rugby Pacific campaign on a two-year deal.

He is well known in New Zealand rugby circles having represented Wellington and Bay of Plenty in the National Provincial Championship before joining the Chiefs ahead of the 2016 Super Rugby season.

Tiatia, who represented Samoa at U20 level, struggled to break into the Hamilton-based outfit’s senior side and moved to the Hurricanes where he made his Super Rugby debut in 2019.

In 2021, he moved back to the Chiefs and turned out in 21 matches during the past two seasons.

Blessed with plenty of pace, and capable of playing at full-back or on the wing, Tiatia is looking forward to a fresh challenge at the Force.

“I’m really looking forward to moving to Perth. It will be a new challenge and a new experience for me,” he told the Force’s official website. “I’ve been to Perth a couple times with Super Rugby, so it’ll be nice to spend some more time there and get to know everyone.

Keen to impress at the Force

“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.”

Western Force assistant coach Ozich is delighted that Tiatia has opted to join the Force and believes he will make a good impression in his new surroundings.

“Chase brings excitement and x-factor to the Force. He’s a player with strong versatility and a rugby brain that can play effectively across the backline,” he said.

“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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