James Tedesco is proud of his Italian heritage.
He says he embraced the culture of his father John from a young age.
"I've got a lot of praise for that over the years of how being a respectful young man, and that's something I've sort of prided myself on. And that's something we've grown up with and been taught along the way. It's just the natural thing for the Italians to be like that, and we've always got a big, loving family, so that definitely helps."
Tedesco's mother Rosemary credits his grandparents for helping her son mature.
"They've instilled a lot of values in both the boys, so I'm very fortunate that way. And they've turned into, fortunately, fine young men, so we're very proud."
Tedesco's grandparents live down the road from his 97-year-old great-grandmother.
But he says visits to see his family are a bit different now he is a professional athlete.
"I used to be big on the pastas and the schnitzels, but I think I was getting a bit bloated there for a bit. I think I couldn't eat too much, so I sort of tried to back off as much as I can. But every time I go over there, there's always some sort of pasta or schnitzel waiting for me there, so that's definitely a favourite to cook for me."
One of the greatest Italian-Australians to play Rugby League, Anthony Minichiello, first met Tedesco in 2013.
Now, the Sydney Roosters legend has helped convince him to join the Roosters next season.
"His character and his traits obviously come from your family. You know, at a young age, you see what your mum and dad do, and where you grow up, your cousins and all that type of stuff. But that's the way you learn. And he's learnt from his parents. And the respect thing and his heritage ... he's proud of his heritage, which is great as well, so that's helped develop him."
Tedesco represented Italy at the 2013 World Cup.
He says he hopes to do the same later this year -- if higher honours do not come his way.
"If I don't get a call-up for the Kangaroos' spot, then I'll definitely be there for the Italians. It's a sort of a win-win.* If I get in the Australian spot, I'm stoked, but to represent Italy again would be a great opportunity for me. And, yeah, I can't wait. I loved it."
