Fitzgerald represented Marlborough between 1917 and 1921, appearing for the union in every backline position except fullback.
[2] In that game he lined up alongside fellow future dual-international Jim O'Brien.
Fitzgerald represented New Zealand (RU) in the 12–11 victory over Wairarapa at Carterton on 19 July 1922, the 26–19 victory over New South Wales at Sydney on 29 July 1922, the 24–6 victory over Metropolitan Union at Sydney on 2 August 1922, the 6–8 defeat by New South Wales at Sydney on 7 August 1922, and scored a penalty in the 45–11 victory over Manawatu-Wellington XV at Palmerston North on 16 August 1922 but never played a Test match for the New Zealand national rugby union team.
[2][3] In 1923 Fitzgerald moved to Christchurch, joining the Marist Old Boys club.
Fitzgerald excelled in rugby league and in his debut year he made the national side, playing in two Test matches against Great Britain.