Upon hearing the announcement of the New South Wales side, both Cooper and Tate had nothing but praise for Gulgong local Josh Jackson, picked to start at lock in next Wednesday’s Origin blockbuster.

“It’s really good for the area (Jackson’s selection), there was always speculation that he was going to be in the side because he’s been working hard and playing some good footy for his club,” Tate said. 

When asked if either ex-Origin star had any tips for Jackson leading up to next weeks game, Brent Tate was hesitant to give away any Queensland secrets, but did have some tips for the young Gulgong star.

“There’s nothing to prepare you for your first Origin match.  It’s a big game. He just needs to take it easy during the week, train hard and keep his mind occupied during his down time so he doesn’t play his game too early,” Tate said. 

“He’s played in a grand final and for the Kangaroos, when you’ve been around that environment and you’ve played a few years of first grade it’s not as if it’s a meteoric rise. I think it’s a great selection for them (NSW).”

When asked who they thought would win game one next Wednesday, there were no surprises with both ex-Origin players tipping their old teams, in what should be a titanic contest between the experience of Queensland and youthful exuberance of New South Wales.  

Both Tate and Cooper grew up and played their junior football in regional areas, and said it was important for them to visit country towns and give back to the community.

“I remember when I was a kid and we used to get NRL players come and visit my area and it was a big thrill for me, so I can only imagine the kids will be pretty happy to see Tatey and I,” Cooper said.

“Being out in Mudgee you don’t get to meet many ex-NRL players, so we’ve been really looking forward to our visit.”