Culture & Lifestyle

James Tedesco joins the Dogs

He is commencing a new role as an official ambassador.

Published by
Isaac Issa

James Tedesco is set to join a dogs team a little different than the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, as the premiership-winning fullback signs on to become an official ambassador for Greyhounds as Pets NSW (GAP).

He will join rival superstar fullback, and fellow GAP ambassador, Ryan Papenhuyzen, at the annual National Greyhound Adoption Day on Sunday, 27 April at the Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park.

Tedesco discussed how important the new role was to him, highlighting GAP's stellar work.

"Whenever the opportunity comes along to be involved with a product or cause, it must be something I strongly believe in, and that's why I had no hesitation partnering with Greyhounds as Pets as an ambassador," Tedesco admitted.

Greyhounds are often overlooked as pets due to their elite racing abilities, a notion that Tedesco insists should be dismissed.

NRL Round 2, 2025: Penrith Panthers vs Sydney RoostersNRL Round 2, 2025: Penrith Panthers vs Sydney Roosters
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 14: James Tedesco looing distraught during the round two NRL match between Penrith Panthers and Sydney Roosters at CommBank Stadium, on March 14, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Joshua Davis/Zero Digital Sports)

"Greyhounds are one of the most gentle, affectionate, and playful breeds of dogs. I have mates who own greyhounds and they make awesome pets.

"People think because of their careers on the racetrack that they would need lots of exercise, but they don't.

"I'd encourage anyone thinking about getting a dog to seriously consider a greyhound."

Greyhound Racing NSW chief executive officer Steve Griffin was ecstatic to have Tedesco join GAP as an ambassador, praising the Sydney Roosters skipper for his great impact on the game.

"Not only is James an icon of the game at club, NSW and Australian level, but he is one of the most respected players in rugby league," Griffin said.

"We are delighted that James has agreed to be part of the GAP team, promote our wonderful animals, and build awareness around what loving pets they make.

The campaign theme of this year's National Adoption Day is Adopt Happiness, and on 27 April, GAP is hoping to find new homes for 60 greyhounds.

James Tedesco. (Photo: Joshua Davis)

"It's the perfect message because when you adopt a greyhound, you are bringing happiness into your home," Tedesco said.

"I'm proud to get behind GAP and help more people see what great companions and loving pets these dogs can be."

Both Papenhuyzen and Tedesco will be in attendance on Sunday, in the hope that their NRL stature will help draw eyes to this commendable event.

Published by
Isaac Issa
2 weeks ago