Storm icons to stand forever at home ground

MELBOURNE Storm icons Billy Slater and Cameron Smith will be immortalised with statues at AAMI Park.

The exact location, potential poses and artist has yet to be finalised, but plans for the landmark tributes will ramp up in coming weeks.

The state government and Storm-funded venture was announced yesterday at Gosch’s Paddock in front of hundreds of Melbourne fans welcoming back the grand finalists.

“I’m really proud of the contribution I’ve made to rugby league in this state and to have a statue of Cameron and myself out the front of AAMI Park is something that I’m really proud of,” Slater said.

“My kids will be able to grow up in this town and see their dad and what their dad’s done for our game in this state.

“Excited to see what it looks like, but it will be good.”

Slater yesterday flatly ruled out any backflips on retirement, content to be stepping out of the game after 319 NRL appearances.

Despite the grand final loss and firm belief he could still play on, Slater, 35, is excited about life after football.

“No. No. I’m done. It’s my time,” Slater said.

“I have no doubt that I could play another year but I’ve had my fair share of serious injuries and to be able to walk away from the game healthy and fit I see it as a great opportunity.”

Slater has tasted team and individual success over the past 16 seasons, including two premierships (2012, ’17), two Clive Churchill Medals, Golden Boot and Dally M awards.

He was booed mercilessly during the grand final but laughed that off yesterday.

“You play at away grounds and they’re passionate supporters,” Slater said.