As far as bizarre sporting journeys go, Mariano Canavessio's would rival anyone's across the globe.
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The Argentinian spent three years in Italy before signing with Tigers FC and landing in Cooma earlier this year, during that minuscule window of normality between the horrific summer bushfires, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tigers sealed a deal in late February to sign Canavessio alongside fellow countryman Augusto Colaneri.
Although Colaneri was homesick and rushed home almost immediately, Canavessio realised he did not come all the way to Australia for nothing.
"I love it here in Australia, the country is beautiful... I have been unable to travel around here but I have seen pictures which look beautiful," Canavessio said.
"The people here in Cooma are lovely, although it is very cold, I am loving life and my teammates are all very welcoming."
Among his time in Italy, the centre back played for ACD. Treviso who spent some time in the Serie A a couple of decades ago.
Living in Treviso was a dream come true, but Canavessio explored other options and did extensive research to eventually find Cooma.
Like many before him, Canavessio settled for Cooma because of this search and it was the Latino flavour and a former Tigers coach which enticed him.
"I was playing in Italy for the past three season which was beautiful, but I wanted to play elsewhere this year," he said.
"I wanted to experience Australia and play here, I did my research and found some articles of previous Argentinian players playing for Cooma.
"I found the name of Gabi Wilk, he was the coach up until last year and I decided to reach out to him and he was very excited to bring me over.
"Gabi has been extremely helpful, he told me he was very keen to bring me over and I am very grateful for the help he has provided me."
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Although loving Australian life, Canavessio is missing his family and friends back home but he also believed that he has found a long-term home.
"I miss my family and friends every day, they are a big part of my life and I love them dearly," he said.
"With Covid being a lot better here than other countries and with Football actually going ahead, I feel very safe here.
"I have very good teammates, I will make a decision later, but I will say here, I love it and the Tigers are an incredible club... I feel at home."
The Tigers face Gungahlin in the final round before a potential grand final showdown. Anything short of a win may mean the Tigers miss out.
With Canberra Croatia FC already sealing a place in the final, their eyes will be closely following what happens in the last round with Tigers, Gungahlin and Belconnen all still a chance of making the decider.
Tigers are hitting form having beating Belconnen 2-1 last weekend.