'We actually spoke to the Roosters': Freddy reveals why his son chose union over league
Updated . First published
Zach Fittler, the son of league legend Brad, has signed a two-year deal with the NSW Waratahs.
The strapping 18-year-old centre has signed an 'elite development' contract with the Super Rugby Pacific club after considering his future in both codes.
And Brad Fittler has now revealed the simple reason for his son's decision.
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Zach Fittler in action for the NSW under-16 rugby team. Stan
"Following his dreams. We actually spoke to the Roosters. He just likes union at the moment," Fittler said on Nine's Freddy & the Eighth.
"I think he's not lost to league totally. He plays No.12 (in union) but he's played in the scrum (forwards). But he mainly plays No.12 (inside centre)."
Fittler, who weighs 105kg, has played rugby for Scots College's first XV for the last three years as well as starring for the Waratahs, Roosters and Australia at age group level.
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"Given Zach's character, attitude and ability, we are very excited for him to continue developing in the NSW Waratahs pathways system for the next two years," NSW Rugby talent identification manager Andrew Cleverley said in a statement.
Fittler hit the headlines in 2022 when he dominated Queensland at the national under-16 rugby championships.
Playing for NSW, Fittler looked like a man against boys as he steamrolled a Queensland defender on the try-line and made another rampaging run.
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Fittler's eye-catching display as an impact back helped NSW to a 32-3 win in Brisbane.
"He's making his own path, so he's extremely excited and a little bit nervous," Brad Fittler told 9News in 2022.
"He's bigger and stronger (than I am). It (changing of the guard) happened a few years ago, so I'm used to being dominated at home," the NRL legend quipped.
Zach Fittler in action for the NSW under-16 rugby team. Stan
Fittler also told 9News in 2022 that he was determined not to be an overbearing father as his exciting son finds his feet.
"I'm very aware he has his own coaches," he said.
"There are a lot of times where I want to say something, and most probably the hardest part of my day is not."
