Footy prodigy ready to follow in famous father’s footsteps after earning selection in prestigious camp

It’s one of the most famous surnames in NSW rugby league, and there could be another Fittler ready to pull on the famous blue jersey in a few years.

Zach Fittler is ready to take the next step in his rugby league journey. Picture; Jeremy Ng/Newscorp

It mightn’t be too long until another Fittler is running around for NSW after the squads were announced for a two-day camp for the state’s brightest young stars.

Blues coach Brad Fittler will have 41 players to look after this weekend, but he’ll have one eye focused on his son Zach who has already impressed scouts this year.

Zach Fittler showed he could handle Harold Matts. Picture: Jeremy Ng/NewsCorp

The teenager is still a long way away from first grade, but he excelled for the Roosters in the Harold Matthews competition this year and was outstanding for NSW in the under-16s rugby national championship last month.

Fittler played up an age division in the Harold Matts and is already an athletic specimen weighing in at 105kg.

He’ll be able to work on his skills along with 40 up-and-coming youngsters at NSWRL headquarters, with a couple of familiar faces there to ensure the state’s next generation is up to speed for what’s to come.

The Blues are looking to bounce back from this year’s shock defeat. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

Former Blues skipper Boyd Cordner will be there to help, as will NSW assistant coach Paul McGregor as they identify and nurture talent from the Northern Rivers, Newcastle, Illawarra, Canberra and Sydney.

Sky Blues coach Kylie Hilder will also run a camp for 25 girls from across the state and will be helped by NRLW premiership-winner Millie Boyle as well as former NSW skipper Ruan Sims.

The camp will focus on things like gym work and field sessions, but there will also be an emphasis on life skills such as leadership, nutrition and mental focus.