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The Western Force have secured a second young back from rugby league, signing North Queensland Cowboys centre Will Tupou to their Super Rugby franchise.
The burly Tupou has been a fringe first grade player with the Cowboys this season, playing nine games and scoring three tries.
His signing follows that of fellow 21-year-old Jordan Rapana who has crossed codes after opting out of the second year of his NRL contract with the Gold Coast Titans and doing a two-year Morman mission overseas.
Tupou’s finest moment from 21 NRL appearances came when he scored the match-winning 82nd minute try in the Cowboys’ round 20 home win over Newcastle last season.
However, the New Zealand-born youngster grew up playing rugby union and was in the 2007 Australian Schoolboys team before joining the Brisbane Broncos development squad as an 18-year-old.
And he said he’d always wanted to make his mark in rugby union.
“I enjoyed my time in league and I’m happy that I gave it a go but playing rugby at the highest level is what I always wanted to do,” said Tupou.
“It’s something that myself and my dad have talked about since I was a kid.
“The Force has given me a great opportunity and I want to make the most of that.”
Western Force coach Richard Graham was confident Tupou would quickly make the transition back into rugby.
“I have no doubt that Will could have enjoyed a long career in league and we’ve seen this year he has been a strong performer for the North Queensland side,” said Graham.
“His desire, however, to return to his rugby roots is a windfall for us and I think he’ll make a strong statement in Super Rugby.
“The way he made his way into first team reckoning in the NRL was impressive and if it hadn’t been for some unlucky injury setbacks he’d have plenty more games under his belt.
“I think he’ll bring a real physical presence to our midfield.
“In recruiting this year I wanted to bring in some physically developed players and Will’s involvement in a professional program in Townsville under Neil Henry will have him ready for those demands.”
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