Carraro joins Brumbies squad

Centre Matt Carraro has returned to the Brumbies squad in preparation for his first season of professional rugby.

The 22-year-old was the final signing for the Brumbies’ 2007 squad and was included on the back of an impressive season with Randwick in the Tooheys New Cup and strong performances with the Brumbies in the Australian Provincial Championship.

Carraro, who joins the Brumbies on a one-year Rookie contract, says he is looking forward to his first season with the two-time Super 12 champions.

“This is my first opportunity to be part of a full-time program so I’m keen to see what I can achieve,” he said. “The Brumbies program has a reputation as being one of the best in the world so I know I am in good hands.

“Players come here and develop well so I’m not setting myself unrealistic expectations at this stage. My main goal is to improve my own game and try to show what I’m capable of at every opportunity."

The former St Joseph’s student and Australian Schoolboys representative is currently recuperating from a stress reaction in his right foot, sustained in the lead-up to the Brumbies’ APC match against the Reds in Brisbane last month.

Carraro says he is keen to begin full training with the Brumbies.

“The medical staff told me that I should be right to be running again in a fortnight,” he said. “While it’s frustrating, it’s still a good opportunity to get a feel for the program. I had a great time in Canberra during the APC and it’s just good to be back.”

Brumbies coach Laurie Fisher says Carraro will benefit from being part of a full-time program with the Brumbies.

“Matt’s a young athletic player who has good size, speed and strength,” he said. “We’re looking to increase the depth in our outside backs and Matt fit the bill well. We’ll be looking at him in the centres and on the wing but he has the potential to develop into a very good footballer.”

Related Article:

Palavi on track for Super 14 return (Fri Oct 20)