Piggott, the son of a policeman, grew up in the South Melbourne area and started his working life at the age of 14, for a soap manufacturer. He played his early football for Queenscliff and also made some appearances for South Sydney, while in New South Wales, due to his military service. His first overseas posting was in New Guinea, with the 2/5th Commando Unit, but after suffering malaria was sent home. He was also decommissioned, from lieutenant to private, due to conflicts with his commanding officers. Soon after he returned to New Guinea and would fight in the Battle of Wau, with the 2/6th Commando Unit.