Brad Fittler reveals the key factor behind his New South Wales overhaul
BLUES coach Brad Fittler has revealed the key factor behind his new-look New South Wales side, claiming form was not the key criteria.
Blues
Don't miss out on the headlines from Blues. Followed categories will be added to My News.
BLUES coach Brad Fittler has given a rare insight into NSW’s daring and unique new selection policy — claiming form wasn’t the key criteria.
His strategy was based around how players treat their teammates and whether players could relate to each other.
“How they get on,” Fittler said.
And whether the NSW coaching staff thought blokes had a desire to want to play alongside another player.
NEXT GEN: Freddy says Cleary can be a legend
DONE: Slater ruled out of Origin I
“What we did, we forgot about reputation and went on form. And that form was gauged on a lot what they were doing week in, week out,” Fittler said ahead of Wednesday night’s opening Origin match in Melbourne.
“But also how they treated their teammates — there are things that happen on a footy field that you notice as an ex-player where you say: ‘You know what, I’d like to play with him’.
“That was one of our criteria — someone you want to play with.
“That was one of the main criteria — someone that the coaching staff thought they would want to play with.
“And picking people you think will relate together and get on. It’s been a great experience picking this side. How your mind changes week in, week out. You have to tick off so many things.
“I just feel that if this team can have a bit of luck and things work out, then they could really drive footy forward for NSW for a while. They’ve got great character.”
The Blues will train for the final time on Tuesday before the big MCG game.
NSW’s 11 debutants appear calm and relaxed but nothing will prepare them for a crowd of 85,000.
“We’ve just got to nail it, as simple as that. There are no second chances. We are all pretty new to the game, the coaches, and a lot of the players as well,” Fittler said.
“We’ve got to win this game. Obviously there will be a reaction to what happens in this game — whoever wins or loses.
“The team is very exciting, without a doubt. As of now, I feel good and confident that the team is coming together well and they’ll handle the pressure of the night — as simple as that.
“Like I said, we just want to get it right and we feel like we have and we feel like everyone is in a good mood.
“They’ve come together really well. The fact there is so many blokes here for the first time — that has been a benefit for the team.”
Queensland coach Kevin Walters added: “NSW has a very exciting side.”
Fittler remains optimistic his young players will handle the immense occasion. But he warns nothing can guarantee some players won’t be affected by pressure.
Asked could he ensure his young players don’t crack under pressure, Fittler said: “I can’t ensure that. But so far, so good, the preparation has been good. We’ve had some long days but they are having a day off (on Monday).
“Because of the long preparation you have to be careful how you treat the build-up — don’t get nervous too early, I suppose.”
The media attention is camp this week has been overwhelming, Fittler claimed.
Cameras and journalists have followed the Blues everywhere.
And the media spotlight can affect a player, according to Fittler.
“It’s something all players need to get used to. Not many players really nail it,” Fittler said. “Seeing your photo in the paper and stories written about you, it’s about being able to handle that. That can definitely be challenging.
“The things we have access to in State of Origin — it’s very well-funded. How well you run your camps, this is why the players play so well, because they are prepared.
“They are looked after and they train right to the point where we think it’s perfection. You need to train them but not run them too hard. You’ve got so many staff involved — that’s why it’s the pinnacle product.”