Tom Robertson said it was difficult to leave the NSW Waratahs but the Dubbo Kangaroos junior is expected to boost his Wallabies chances with a move west.
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The NSW Waratahs and Robertson confirmed the prop will depart after five years in sky blue.
While there has been rumours of a potential switch to American rugby earlier this year, the Western Force announced the signing of Robertson shortly after the Waratahs confirmed his exit.
The Force returned to premier competition this year after an all-Australian competition was formed due to COVID-19 ruining any chance of a Super Rugby competition involving sides from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Argentina and Japan.
The exact format of the 2021 season is yet to be confirmed but Robertson provides the Force with real quality in the front-row.
While he's battled injuries in recent years Robertson's name has always been around Wallabies selection and he departs the Tahs having represented his country 24 times.
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The Dubbo junior played 62 times for the Waratahs while he's previously played for the Australian Schoolboys, Junior Wallabies and the NSW Country Eagles.
"Being a part of this club has been one of my proudest achievements and it was a difficult decision to leave," Robertson said.
"I've loved being a Waratah, playing alongside some amazing players and learning from some of the best rugby minds in the country.
"The club has supported my growth as a player on the field, while allowing me to pursue my education off it, something I'll always be grateful for.
"I'd like to thank everyone both past and present at the Waratahs for everything they've contributed to my career to date - I wouldn't be here without them."
The hard-working and versatile prop, who's made numerous visits back to Dubbo in recent years and always helped out country juniors, has also made headlines for his efforts off the field.
Robertson has studied a medical degree at Sydney University while playing for the Tahs and Wallabies and is renowned as someone who spends a huge amount of time studying his own game and that of his rivals.
"Tom's been fantastic for us over several years here at the Waratahs and personifies the strength of our game in country areas," NSWRU General Manager of Rugby Tim Rapp said.
"He's developed right through our pathway and we've seen him grow from a talented schoolboy into a Wallaby.
"Whilst you'd like to keep all of your players, roster management is a tricky balancing act made more difficult in the current climate.
"Tom's taking up an opportunity elsewhere and we wish him all the best, he's been a wonderful contributor to our squad over many years and we hope that he may return in the future to continue that relationship."
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Nick Guthrie
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
