The State versus State, Mate versus Mate catch-cry will be doing the rounds at Knights HQ this week after three NYC players were selected to play in the annual Under-20s State of Origin clash at Penrith on Saturday.
Jake Mamo and Sione Mata'utia will line-up for NSW on the wing and centre respectively, while Jaelen Feeney has been chosen at halfback for Queensland.
As much as the trio are good friends in the Club's undefeated NYC team, Feeney says any mateship will be put aside once they cross the white stripe at Sportingbet Stadium from 5.30pm.
"As much as we are good mates off the field and in the same team, it’s that culture of when you put that jersey on it’s the dirty rotten blues versus the all-mighty Queenslanders," Feeney says half grinning.
"So you put all that aside and you go out there and leave nothing on the field."
It's a competitive taunt from Feeney that's attracted an immediate response from his Knights teammate and Blues rival Mata’utia.
The South Newcastle junior played Origin Under-18s last year and fully understands the importance of donning the NSW jumper against arch-rivals Queensland.
"Once he (Jaelen) has changed jerseys he is not your mate out on the field," Mata'utia says.
"So there will be no mateship out there until we hear that last bell.
"But if he comes my way, I’ll definitely be giving him some tussle.
"That’s just footy and it's fun.
"It means a lot to play for NSW though because there is a lot of pride in the Blues jersey.
"The previous camps have spoken about being proud of the jerseys and respectful of the people who have worn it before you.
"So it’s an honour and I’m humbled and keen to get out there."
While Mata'utia has played for his state in the junior ranks, Saturday will be Feeney's first match in a Queensland jumper and he can't wait to fulfil his childhood Origin dream.
"It’s unreal to have the opportunity to put on a Queensland jersey and I can’t wait," he enthuses.
"With Wayne (Bennett) around the Club and the Queensland sort of feel helped.
"The opportunity was there and now that I’ve got it, it has definitely paid off the big move.
"I didn’t get the opportunity to wear the maroon when I was a kid, so to wear it when I’m almost 20 years old is definitely fulfilling.
"I watched a lot of Mal Meninga and Allan Langer in Origin as a kid, so I'm just excited to play because for the opportunity for someone to make an Origin team as 20 years old keeps that belief there."
Mata'utia, meanwhile, is looking forward to forming a potent combination with Mamo in the NSW side.
"I’m stocked for Jake," he beams.
"He has had a wonderful year so far making his debut is an awesome achievement.
"But for him to make the Blues is great and I can’t wait to play with him.”
Mata'utia may be happy to be mates with Mamo on Saturday night, but the same can't be said for his Queensland rival Feeney.
It is, of course, the Origin way.
