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By RugbyWA Media
Phoenix Battye won’t be pulling any punches
Canberra junior Phoenix Battye will have plenty of home town support ahead of an anticipated FxPro Super Rugby debut on Friday night in the nation’s capital, even if it is in the ocean blue of the Emirates Western Force.
The former Brumbies Academy lock made the switch to the west in 2011 and hasn’t looked back, making strong progress in the past 18 months. Taken under the wing of star second rower Nathan Sharpe, Battye will have the chance to play alongside his rugby hero in the season opener.
“It’s a dream come true to make a Super Rugby debut, especially in your home town with family and friends coming along,” Battye said.
“It’ll be a bit weird to be in the away team rooms as I’ve played out of the home changerooms at Canberra Stadium a few times as a junior but I’m happy where I am and looking forward to representing the Emirates Western Force.
“When opportunities come around you have to take them with both hands because they don’t come around easily or too often. Working with guys like Nathan Sharpe, Sam Wykes and Toby Lynn has been terrific. The forward pack at the Emirates Western Force is incredible and to be involved in that is a great feeling,” said Battye.
The 21 year old has had the week to let any nerves settle and is now is just looking forward to getting onto the field and help produce a winning start to 2012 for the Emirates Western Force.
“There have been some nerves but there are some great guys in our side who have lots of experience and they’ve made me feel at ease and I’m seeing how they go about preparing and making sure I tick all the boxes as well,” said Battye.
With Sharpe to hang up his boots at the end of the season Battye said the chance to watch and learn from close quarters will be invaluable, and should the rising youngster continue to take big leaps upwards he hopes his stay in WA will be a long one.
“While Canberra will always be my home I’m really enjoying my time in the west. The club has treated me really well and has given me this opportunity and I want to repay them as best I can,” Battye said.