After spending last year with the Bulldogs, Tidswell has decided to return to his home town to play rugby league with the Cowra Magpies.

Tidswell marked himself as one of the forwards to watch during his time at the Bulldogs, earning Country Cockatoos selection.

One of Tidswell’s fellow Country representatives in the Bulldogs forwards, Chris Plunkett, says his departure will be felt by the club and the first grade team.

“He was a very big asset for us. It’s one of those things that happens, though – you’re playing for love and not the money,” he said.

“It can get very expensive when you’re living about 100 kilometres from the club. It makes sense that he’d make the move.

“His attitude was the best thing; I loved travelling with him. Obviously his size is the other strong point ... [but] I’m confident we have plenty of cattle to fill the spot.

“Our first training run was great and it looks like everyone’s already got themselves in the right frame of mind.”

The focus has now turned to the 2015 season.

The Bulldogs enjoyed a stronger back half of the 2014 season, winning six of their nine matches, including four matches in a row.

Trying to show that strong form earlier in the season will be the focus for Plunkett and the team.

“It can be very much the luck of the draw. Whatever happens at the start of the season can come back to hurt you,” he said.

“We had a great back half of the season, but we came home too late and they [Orange City, Emus and Dubbo Kangaroos] were already there.

“Everyone wants to get back towards the top again. For me, I’ve won this in 2005 and 2010, so maybe if you’re a bit superstitious or the like then maybe you’d think this is meant to be our year again. 

“The Caldwell Cup was the last thing on my list, so that’s it for me with my representative duties. That’s not to say that I’m unmotivated. I really can’t wait to get my head back into the club games full-time.

“We’re going to have Adam Dwyer back for the whole season this time and not just half of it, which is great.”