Steelers halfback Aaymon Fitzgibbon on his father’s advice, stepping into new role in SG Ball

Craig thinks he doesn’t listen at times, but Steelers halfback Aaymon Fitzgibbon promises he takes in all the advice from his legendary father as he looks to forge his own path in rugby league.

Aaymon Fitzgibbon is looking to lock in his spot in the Illawarra Steelers SG Ball side. Picture: Allan Barry

His father Craig might think he doesn’t always listen to his advice.

But Aaymon Fitzgibbon promises he does.

The Illawarra Steelers SG Ball halfback knows better than to shrug off the teachings of a modern league legend and current NRL coach.

The young gun respects the incredible reputation his father has built within the game with a goal of creating his own name in the years to come.

“There’s a legacy to keep going and I’m glad I get to contribute to it. I’d like to make it my own,” he said.

Craig Fitzgibbon during his playing days with Illawarra. Picture: Angelo Soulas

“Whenever he can he’s at games, watching me and helping as much as he can.

“He thinks I don’t listen too much, but I take in what he says. He’s been there and done that at the top level, and that’s what I want to be at one day.

“I take every little thing he says and do it myself.”

This willingness to take advice on board has helped Fitzgibbon step up into the number seven jersey for the Steelers despite being a year young.

He was called upon in round four following an injury to Kade Reed and hasn’t looked back as the side looks to build on its 4-1 start to the season.

“It’s the next man up. Everyone is training hard and trying to work their way into a spot,” he said.

“I’m grateful that they’re putting that trust into me. I want to keep turning up and not mucking it up.

“Kicking is one of the most important parts of my game. You can change the game with a good kick and it’s how I can control a game.

“I have a bigger boot on me and I’m trying to use that to cement my spot. I want to get my kicks right and do those little things right.”

Thirroul Butchers players in their rep footy colours (left to right): Aaymon Fitzgibbon, Jackson Smith and Ty Bursill. Picture: Thirroul Butchers Facebook

Stepping up is nothing new for Fitzgibbon, with the half thrown into the deep end last year when making his senior reserve grade debut for Thirroul.

“I played a couple of reserve grade games last year,” he said.

“There’s some big boys. They see a kid on the field and try to kill them. It’s faster and harder footy and helps to put you a step ahead.

“I started playing there in U6s and haven’t been anywhere since. It’s a great community.”

The task at hand is to get the Steelers back into the winner’s circle after their first loss of the season last week to Penrith.

With a trip to New Zealand to take on the Warriors, Fitzgibbon believes it is the perfect opportunity to bounce back.

“Footy is most fun when you can go away with your mates,” he said.

“It’s an exciting trip and we’re all looking forward to it.”