Billy Slater’s involvement with the Maroons this year will extend to the selection table, with Queensland Rugby League today confirming the key appointment.
The former Maroons fullback joins Gene Miles, Darren Lockyer and coach Kevin Walters on the selection panel ahead of the 2019 Holden State of Origin Series.
“It’s a great honour to be offered this position,” Slater said.
“I have always been willing to contribute to this team in any way possible.”
Slater is one of Queensland’s favourite rugby league sons, having played 31 Origin matches for his beloved Maroons before retiring at the end of last season.
Prior to today’s announcement, Slater had already committed to assisting the Maroons throughout this year’s campaign as part of Walters’ new-look coaching and mentoring set up.
QRL Chairman Bruce Hatcher congratulated Slater on his new appointment.
“With a sharp mind and genuine understanding of Origin and the modern-day game, we believe Billy’s addition will only add more nous to a panel that has unrivalled experience across multiple eras,” Hatcher said.
Walters, who is shooting for a third-series win in his fourth year in charge of the Maroons, shared similar sentiments.
“Billy is one of the most loyal and passionate Queenslanders I’ve come across and from all my dealings with him, you know that he is always willing to help out in any capacity he can,” Walters said.
He knows the game inside out, which is going to be an asset for us when we look to settle on the right combinations.”
2019 Queensland Maroons selection panel:
- Gene Miles (Chairman)
- Darren Lockyer
- Billy Slater
- Kevin Walters (Coach)
