NSW fullback James Tedesco expects new Blues coach Brad Fittler to hand his players an attack-to-thrill license as they look to end Queensland's long-standing State of Origin dominance in 2018.
Speaking from The Star after the Blues announced a three-year front of jersey major sponsorship with Brydens, Tedesco said he believes Fittler's approach and coaching philosophy will play into the hands of the exciting young crop of players at his disposal.
Fittler, who worked closely with Mitchell Moses for Lebanon at the World Cup, gave his playmaker the freedom to play what was in front of him – something Tedesco believes will bring the best out of the Blues.
"Mitch said something that was quite interesting and will be good for us too," Tedesco told NRL.com.
"He said if he saw a play or wanted to do something, 'Freddy' (Fittler) was all for it. He gave the team a lot of freedom and encouraged Mitch to do that.
"That's a good thing in Origin with guys who all have their own strengths and want to play to them. To have that free reign will be good for us."
While Laurie Daley only one won of five series in charge of NSW, he helped unearth a number of young players throughout his time.
That progression is expected to accelerate under Fittler's watch, who has the potential to turn the Origin tide with the group of young players including the likes of Moses, Nathan Cleary, Latrell Mitchell and Nick Cotric.
"Yeah it's exciting to have Freddy. With our squad there, it's a pretty young squad and we have a chance to be together and build something for a few years to come," Tedesco said.
"It's pretty exciting. I'm looking forward to starting the year strong and hopefully get back my spot. [Moses and I] have had a bit of a chat. He's come back from Lebanon camp and we had a bit of a chat about that. Mitch thinks Freddy will be good for NSW.
"His laid back attitude will be good for us. It's exciting. I played under him on the wing for City. He's just so relaxed. It's a good thing, especially in Origin with all the hype and the media. It's a good thing to relax and not get caught up in that."
Tedesco will start training with his new club the Sydney Roosters on December 11. A lot has changed at the Tricolours since he put pen to paper mid-way through the year, including the departure of Mitchell Pearce and the arrival of Cooper Cronk.
Tedesco formed quite a handy combination with Pearce during their three games together for NSW this year, and while he's disappointed that won't continue for the Roosters, he's excited about the prospect of linking with the former Melbourne No.7.
"Having Cooper Cronk coming to the club is pretty exciting for me personally," he said.
"The combination he had with Billy over how many years was pretty special. I'm pretty excited just to learn off Cooper. He's got a big footy brain and I hope I can take my game to the next level playing alongside him.
"With Pearcey, I was pretty excited to play with him. The events that have happened means he won't be there anymore which is disappointing for him and the club. But I've messaged him a bit and I obviously think he's looking forward to the new chapter. I'm sure he'll kill it."
This article first appeared on NRL.com
