IMMORTAL Arthur Beetson was disrespected by New South Wales Rugby League's David Trodden, according to his son Brad Beetson.

Brad spoke to the Western Star about the comments Trodden had made last month at a gala event where he included Artie Beetson in their True Blue initiative.

"Dad didn't like the political side of rugby league at all and he was instrumental in getting Origin going and the Maroons going," he said.

"He definitely wouldn't have accepted being called a blue."

Like his father, Brad was born in Roma and to this day supports the team his father played for in the inaugural State Of Origin match in 1980.

"He still is a Queensland legend to this day, I don't think he would like to be associated with the blues," he said.

"My other brother was born in New South Wales and is a blue supporter so there's always a bit of texting around this time of year.

"My father was a proud Maroons supporter, always.

"He did play games for New South Wales residential, but he was never a blues supporter."

WHAT do you think about the comments made by David Trodden? Let us know at editorial@westernstarnews.com.