‘It’s a great honour’: Slater named new Maroons coach

illy Slater wants to help develop the next generation of Queensland stars after the Maroons legend agreed to take on the State of Origin role for the next two years.

Slater, who played 31 Origins and was a key member of Queensland’s eight-year domination of the interstate series, has been announced as the Maroons’ next coach after being approached to replace Paul Green two weeks ago.

Green stood down because he wanted to consider any NRL jobs that come up next season or in 2023 but Slater has made it clear he is only interested in coaching the Maroons.

Since retiring from the professional playing ranks in 2018, Slater has impressed with his football intellect and his understanding of the modern-day game through his work as a commentator, Maroons selector and mentor.

“I’m very honoured to be able to have been involved with the Queensland State of Origin team - firstly as a supporter when I was a young boy, inspired by the team, then I got the opportunity to play for Queensland and be one of those players,”

Slater said.

“Now I get the chance to help guide and help bring through the next generation.

“Over the next little period, we’ll build a support staff around the players that will best assist the players to play at their optimal.”

As well as being part of 11 series wins for Queensland, Slater boats 30 Test caps for Australia and played 323 games for the Storm where he collected two premierships.

Slater has acted as a Maroons selector for the last two years and was close to taking on the head coaching job going into this year’s series after having discussions with the QRL, before they ultimately chose to appoint Green.

While Slater’s coaching career is still in its infancy, the 38-yearold has received strong backing from the likes of Smith and Storm coach Craig Bellamy.

“It’s a great honour to be the Queensland coach. I was drawn to the role because I care and because it’s important to me.

“At the end of the day, I’m a Queenslander. This team means a lot to me. It always has. It has been a big part of my life for the majority of my life and now I get the opportunity to help other people, not only fulfil their dream, but inspire a whole state.”