State of Origin 2023: The Tedesco Inn launched in Camden in honour of the NSW Blues captain

A pub in the hometown of NSW Blues captain James Tedesco has been transformed into the The Tedesco Inn – with a limited edition ‘Teddy Parmigiana’ making the menu – as Origin fever takes hold.

James Tedesco outside the “Tedesco Inn”. Picture: Marc Llewellyn

One of NSW Blues favourite sons has taken over a Sydney pub as preparations ramp up for the upcoming State of Origin series, with one of the captain’s favourite dishes, named a ‘Teddy Parmigiana’, making the menu.

In partnership with Tooheys, Camden’s Plough and Harrow pub has been rebranded The Tedesco Inn to pay tribute to the collective effort of community and teamwork underpinning the success of captain James Tedesco and the NSW Blues.

The pub will be a gathering place for Blues supporters to unite, cheer on NSW, and enjoy a ‘Teddy Parmigiana’.

“I’m stoked that Tooheys has created this space for fans to come together to watch the games this year,” Tedesco said.

“It has given me the chance to reflect on all the footy teams in my life, and how valuable the teamwork in rugby league and my community has been, in helping me get to where I am today in my sporting career.

James Tedesco says he cannot wait for the pub to be packed with Camden locals and Blues supporters on Origin nights.

“I’ve been a part of so many great teams, and it all started here playing for Camden Rams, St Paul’s Camden and St Gregs and then through the ranks of the NRL and NSW.”

Growing up in Camden, Tedesco said being a part of different teams moulded him into a great leader and led to his captaincy of the Blues.

The NSW Blues squad at The Tedesco Inn. Grant Trouville NRL Photos

“This is where I grew up … and now to have a pub in the middle of Camden,” he said.

“Seeing The Tedesco Inn is an honour, I can’t wait to see it packed with Blatchys Blues cheering us on.”

Plough and Harrow publican Russ Lowe said he jumped at the chance to host The Tedesco Inn.

“Not only am I a proud supporter of the Camden Rams and watched Teddy grow up on the field, Teddy and his family have been coming to our venue for years – so it was a natural fit,” he said. “Teddy is the pride of the Camden community.”

The Tedesco Inn will open its doors from May 31, for the first game, and will remain open until the final game is played on July 12.

From May 22 until July 12, Tooheys will also donate 50 cents to the Camden Rams, the local junior footy club of Tedesco, for every schooner of Tooheys sold at The Tedesco Inn.