Spirit of Fitzgibbon finds itself in Kangaroos
November 5th 2008 08:02
Craig Fitzgibbon has once again played himself into a Kangaroos jersey despite combating talk surrounding his so called retirement. He finds himself representing Australia at the world cup after returning to the form that made him the most consistent forward in the NRL four years ago.
It seems Fitzgibbon does not age in a competition dominated by forwards with speed and second rowers with versatility to match.
Indeed, Fitzgibbon remains old fashioned when he plays rugby league and his consistency on the park has again yielded big dividends.
Last year, he was an unwanted man, plagued by a form lapse that spread throughout Bondi Junction. It was during Chris Anderson's reign at the Roosters where Fitzgibbon experienced the true lows of his career.
Not that this convinced him to give up the game he loves.
When Brad Fittler was announced head coach of the Roosters, most believed this was the turning point for the Sydney club.
Fitzgibbon on the other hand just knew the man he won a grand final with would be a success. The aura surrounding their friendship and communication would allow Fitzgibbon to penetrate the disappointments of 2007 and come back with force in leagues centenary year.
And what a come back its been.
The Roosters captain has been at the forefront of a Roosters revival that led the club to a top four finish in Fittler's first full season in charge of the club.
Fitzgibbon's revival in form allowed him to return to the representative arena for the first time since 2004, playing in all three games for NSW this Origin series.
And once again, he finds himself wearing an Australian jersey that most thought was beyond him.
Although Fitzgibbon thinks he was fortunate to receive another opportunity with the Kangaroos, deep down he knows the selectors have faith in him.
Rarely has Fitzgibbon ever let his individual needs get the better of his team, thus emphasising why he is one of the most respected figures in the NRL.
Throughout his career, he has always been willing to take the first hit up or make the first tackle in each set.
He is a leader of the highest order and thoroughly deserves his chance to play for the world champions en route to a tenth world cup crown.
And even though he will be a scapegoat when the Kangaroos play for a place in the final, Fitzgibbon's ability to appreciate his moments in the limelight has always served him well among his peers.
Indeed its this appreciation and commitment to the game that will see Fitzgibbon play on in next season.
So when one needs to discover why Australia is so dominant in the League world, players like Fitzgibbon give us simple answers - they just don't give up.
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