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Freddy:
The Brad Fittler Story
But 'Freddy' also produced many of his own 'incidents'. Put his off-field life together with his stellar playing career, and there is plenty of moments to recount in The Brad Fittler Story. Rather than leap into his illustrious playing deeds, the book begins with Fittler telling the story of his youth. Of growing up in a Housing Commission flat in Ashcroft (near Liverpool) and how he became involved in League. As a teenager his family moved to Werrington in Sydney's west. In a not uncommon story for League players, Fittler recounts how his budding football career stopped him sliding into a life of drugs and crime. Still, wild parties and beer were very much part of his weekends. The book then launches into stride as Fittler's career takes-off. It was particularly interesting to read a comparison of the different coaching styles and methods between Ron Willey (Penrith 1989) and Phil Gould (1990). Fittler's arrival in first grade coincided with a new approach to the game, and he quickly came to the forefront. On the surface, most fans probably think there is not much new or interesting that Fittler could convey by a book. But I would have to say that what struck me the most about this book is Fittler's raw honesty. At a time when all involved in rugby league are rapidly pulling-back what they say and admit in print, Fittler has been particularly open about his life as a young man - with pockets full of spare cash and bucket-loads of public adulation. It is a dangerous cocktail, and many young players don't survive it.
Enjoy The Brad Fittler Story as a fitting tribute and chronicle of a great rugby league player - it is a worthwhile read for those reasons alone. More than that though, it is a book that recounts a way of life in rugby league that has probably now been lost. Freddy:
The Brad Fittler Story Product Review © Sean Fagan / RL1908
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Copyright © Sean Fagan 2000-2005: all rights of the author are asserted No content may be reproduced without written permission from RL1908 |
On
its own, a book on the career of a top level rugby league player that
spanned from 1989 to 2004, would offer plenty. Brad Fittler was caught
up in all the dramas that erupted in the most tumultuous period in Australian
rugby league history. 
The
Brad Fittler Story also includes quotes and opinions from others
about Fittler. Some of the stories don't paint Fittler as the model
League player, but to his credit they remain in the book. Many others
are funny and well worth recounting and sharing with the wider public.