With the weight of such a famous surname, the chance to strike out on his own, and in a different code, is part of the decision for the young Fittler.

The Waratahs, Rugby Australia and Fittler’s manager were contacted for comment.

“Zach Fittler definitely fits rugby union.”

NSW Rugby talent identification boss Andrew Cleverly

Slightly bigger than his father, the 105kg Fittler plays mostly back row in league for the Roosters but has filled a power-running midfield role, and even outside back, in rugby.

In an interview with this masthead last year, NSW Rugby talent identification manager Andrew Cleverley first revealed the outfit’s intention to convince Fittler to pursue a future in professional rugby.

Having previously overlooked teenagers signed with NRL clubs, the NSW Rugby junior system was re-jigged to allow selection of the “dual code” stars in the hope the exposure may help entice them to choose rugby over league after they leave school.

“It was a bit of a wrap-our-arms-around-him approach, and see whether they bite at that opportunity,” Cleverley said about Fittler.

“See whether they feel there is a future in the game for him, and if the game fits the way they like to play. Sometimes that’s the key thing.

“Zach, in our opinion, fits a power athlete playing in the middle of the field. Zach Fittler definitely fits rugby union.

“There are a lot of kids these days who are both, they’re not just a rugby kid or a league kid. We call them dual athletes. And it can be a tough decision for kids who are brilliant at both games.”

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In the same article, Brad Fittler said of his son: “At the end of the day, my son enjoys playing both. I try to just stay a fan, and it can be tricky as a parent. Both codes are on offer there for him, but I stay out of telling him anything, really.

“I find he doesn’t listen to me anyway. I am just happy he is out enjoying himself.”

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