James O'Connor, 17, says Force debut will be awesome

[travelling_gerry]

James O'Connor, 17, says Force debut will be awesome

Article from: PerthNow

Nick Taylor
April 15, 2008 02:00pm


WESTERN Force teenage sensation James O'Connor says returning to Queensland for possibly his Super 14 debut will be 'awesome'.
He expects family and friends to be in the crowd.

"I've been looking forward to playing all year, can't wait to get out there,'' said the 17-year-old. "I just want to play well, have an influence on the game.''

He said Matt Giteau had been a big influence on his own game since moving to Perth, as had New Zealand five-eighth Dan Carter.

But he had also learnt from Force five-eighths Lachlan MacKay and Jimmy Hilgendorf.

"I've learnt a lot from all the guys, especially with my confidence, giving me a talk and showing me the ropes.''

And comparisons with Giteau do not bother the youngster.

"I like to think I'm my own player,'' he said.

Moving to Perth had been tough at first, but having been away from family as a boarder at Nudgee College prepared him for the relocation.

One big goal is to add some weight to his 82-83kg frame.

He has always been the 'little guy', even when playing Under-12s. So O'Connor will be counting on his speed and step to keep away from bigger, stronger players as well as avoiding too much contact.

One thing he can't escape, though, are the Force's grappling and wrestling sessions at training - where he has been bashed by his own teammates.





http://www.news.com.au/perthnow/stor...005401,00.html

[Jehna]

What a cutie. Just saw him interviewed on Channel 10. Love Mitchell's comments that he "has a lot of confidence in himself". Personally i don't see a problem with that so long as he limits it within his capabilities and he seems to be a pretty smart cookie. I hope he gets some game time...it'll be interesting to see what he can do.

[lozenga]

hes soooo awsome
and really hoT!!!!
heheh

[gotheforce]

haha. everytime im at the home games, i see him and dane surrounded by chicks. must really help his rep and status being touted an upcoming force player.

[GIGS20]

He's the only backup for Lachie.....BLOODY good chance he'll see the field this week!

Lachie will be at good odds to come off as soon as the game is pretty sure......don't forget that Rabbit also came on late in the trial and ran rings against a tired Reds pack.....he's probably got the perfect chance to play this week!

[inactive]

I dunno it seems drew took over lachies role towards end of the game against tahs and everyone was pushed one position out as crossy was on wing the last bit of the game.