Wikipedia

Billy Slater

For the English footballer, see Billy Slater (footballer).

William Slater (born 18 June 1983) is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 2000s and 2010s. Slater is the current coach of the Queensland Maroons, whom he coached to victories in the 2022 and 2023 State of Origin series.

Billy Slater
Slater playing for the Melbourne Storm in 2008
Personal information
Full nameWilliam Slater[1]
Born (1983-06-18) 18 June 1983 (age 41)
Nambour, Queensland, Australia
Playing information
Height178 cm (5 ft 10 in)
Weight88 kg (194 lb; 13 st 12 lb)
PositionFullback
Club
Years Team Pld T G FG P
2003–18 Melbourne Storm 323 190 0 0 760
Representative
Years Team Pld T G FG P
2004–18 Queensland 31 12 0 0 48
2008–17 Australia 30 27 0 0 108
Coaching information
Representative
Years Team Gms W D L W%
2022– Queensland 9 5 0 4 56
Source: [2][3]

An Australian international and one-time captain of the Queensland State of Origin team, he played his entire club career in the National Rugby League (NRL) for the Melbourne Storm, with whom he played in seven NRL Grand Finals. Slater also set the club's record for most ever tries and NRL record for most ever tries by a fullback.

Slater amassed 190 NRL tries for the Melbourne Storm, which is the third most in Australian first-grade rugby league history. Slater also won two premierships, the Clive Churchill Medal twice and the Dally M Medal with the Storm. With the Kangaroos he was the 2008 World Cup's top try-scorer and player of the tournament and won the 2008 Golden Boot Award as the World player of the year. Slater was also the winner of the television game show Australia's Greatest Athlete in 2009 and 2010.

Background

edit

Slater was born in Nambour, Queensland, Australia on 18 June 1983. He began playing rugby league football for the Brothers club in Innisfail, Queensland.[4] A North Queensland Cowboys fan growing up, he never made a representative side with the club.[5] At sixteen years of age, Slater left school at Innisfail State High School and decided to follow his personal passion for thoroughbred racing, working initially in Sydney for 6 months as a roustabout for racehorse trainer Gai Waterhouse.[6]

Playing career

edit

2003

edit

Slater commenced playing for the Melbourne Storm in 2003. In Round 1 of the 2003 NRL season, Slater made his first grade NRL debut for the Melbourne Storm against the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks at Remondis Stadium. Slater started on the wing and scored a try in Melbourne's 36–32 win after overcoming a 22–0 deficit early in the first half.[7] In Slater's next match in Round 2 against the Penrith Panthers, Slater played his first match for the Storm at fullback, scoring 2 tries in the Storm's 42–16 win at Olympic Park.[8] From Rounds 4–8, Slater played in the centre position before moving back to fullback in Round 10 against the Brisbane Broncos in the Storms 36–16 loss at Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre.[9] Slater played the rest of the year at fullback. After a stellar début season saw him crowned Dally M Rookie of the Year (although the awards that year were cancelled in protest), Slater was the Storm's highest try scorer in the 2003 NRL season with 19 tries in their 26 matches.[10]

2004

edit

Slater made his debut on the wing for Queensland in game one of the 2004 State of Origin series. Slater had a quiet but solid first game in QLD's 9–8 loss at ANZ Stadium.[11] Slater retained his spot on the team for the second game of the series at Suncorp Stadium. In game two, just days shy of his 21st birthday, Slater was named man of the match after scoring two tries. His second try is considered one of the great individual Origin tries. Trailing 12–10, Slater latched onto a grubber kick from Darren Lockyer, chip-kicked the ball over Blues fullback Anthony Minichiello, regathering the ball and scoring in QLD's 22–18 win.[12] Slater scored a try in the decider but could not stop a Brad Fittler inspired New South Wales side from clinching the series in QLD's 36–14 loss.[13] Slater's club form helped his team finish 6th on the ladder, defeating the Brisbane Broncos 31–14 at Suncorp Stadium in the first game of the finals before succumbing to eventual premiers the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs 43–18 at SFS.[14] Slater played 22 matches and scored 14 tries for the Storm in the 2004 NRL season.[15] He was named in the Kangaroo squad to tour Europe but injury prevented him from joining in the tour.[16]

2005

edit

Slater once again impressed in his third NRL season. Once again Slater was picked for the Queensland State of Origin team, this time at his preferred position of fullback. Slater returned for the second game in Sydney which saw the return of Andrew Johns, who spearheaded a New South Wales victory. Despite losing the match 32–22, Slater took advantage of a knock-on from the Blues Anthony Minichiello to score a length of the field try during the match.[17] Slater was dumped from the Queensland side for the deciding third game in Brisbane which led to outrage from some Maroons fans.[18] With injuries and suspensions, Slater had to wait three years for another chance at State of Origin. Slater continued his brilliant form throughout 2005, topping the try scoring charts with 20 tries in 21 matches for the Storm. Melbourne once again finished 6th in the league and defeated the Brisbane Broncos 24–18 at Suncorp Stadium in the first game of the finals before missing the Storms 24–16 season ending loss succumbing to an in-form North Queensland Cowboys team at SFS.[19]

2006

edit

Slater had a less successful 2006 season. Slater was suspended in Round 4 for seven matches for kicking Wests Tigers prop John Skandalis, but also scored two tries in the match.[20] Injuries and suspensions kept Slater out of contention for a spot in the Queensland team in 2006. In his comeback game in Round 13 against the Sydney Roosters in the Storms 20–16 win at Olympic Park, Slater only played 25 minutes of the second half on the wing and was later found guilty of using a dangerous throw on Roosters centre Ryan Cross.[21] Slater was suspended for 2 matches. After Slater's second suspension, Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy decided to give Slater some warm up matches for his comeback into first grade with both North Sydney Bears (Melbourne's feeder club in the NSWRL Premier League) and Norths Devils (Melbourne's feeder club in the Queensland Cup). Slater made his NRL comeback in Round 18 playing his preferred fullback position when the Storm defeated the Brisbane Broncos 10–4 at Olympic Park.[22] In Round 22 against the Wests Tigers in the Storms 46–4 win at Olympic Park,[23] Slater was given a two match suspension for a late forearm, which was his third suspension for the season. Slater came back to the main line-up in Round 25 against the Canberra Raiders in the Storms 22–18 win at Canberra Stadium.[24] A few weeks later, after having claimed the minor premiership the Storm again met the Brisbane Broncos, this time in the 2006 NRL Grand Final. It was Slater's first and he played at fullback in what was Melbourne's first grand final loss after succumbing 15–8 to a Broncos team in Melbourne player Scott Hill farewell NRL match before moving to the ESL.[25] Slater played in 15 matches and scored 5 tries for the Storm in the 2006 NRL season.[26]

2007

edit
 
Slater whilst playing for Melbourne in 2007.

Slater had a quiet start to the 2007 season. In Round 8, he suffered a badly broken cheekbone against the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles when he tried to charge down former teammate Matt Orford's kick, and collided with teammate Sam Tagataese in Melbourne's 13–12 loss at Brookvale Oval.[27] On his return from injury in Round 17, Slater scored 8 tries from 9 appearances and became a vital cog in the back line of the Storm, setting up over 20 tries during the season.[citation needed] In Round 21 against the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks at Remondis Stadium, Slater played his 100th NRL career match in the Storms 17–16 win.[28] Slater was part of the Melbourne Storm 2007 NRL Grand Final winning team at Fullback, defeating the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles 34–8, which was later stripped from them for cheating the salary cap. Slater played in 23 matches and scored 12 tries for the Storm in the 2007 NRL season.[29] Slater won the Storms Back of the Year Award. In the post season Slater was named at Fullback in the Melbourne Storm Team of the Decade.[30]

2008

edit

Slater's start to the 2008 season can be described as nothing short of sensational. He scored 3 tries in Melbourne's 32–18 Round 1 win at Etihad Stadium,[31] one at SFS in Round 3, a 10–6 loss to the Sydney Roosters and two at Olympic Park in Melbourne's 26–4 win over the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles.[32] After his start to the season, Slater garnered praise from league experts such as Laurie Daley and Andrew Johns as being the best player in the game. Slater's form was rewarded when he was selected at fullback for the Australian national team in the Centenary Test against New Zealand, displacing the incumbent Brett Stewart. Slater had a modest game in attack for Australia but proved his worth by making numerous try-saving tackles in Australia's 28–12 victory at SCG.[33] Two weeks later, Slater was selected to once again represent Queensland in the 2008 State of Origin series, this time displacing incumbent, Karmichael Hunt from fullback to five-eighth, Slater had a mixed performance for Queensland throwing a few loose passes despite running over 220 metres and making a line break that nearly resulted in a try to Greg Inglis. Queensland eventually lost, 18–10.[34] Slater returned for Game 2 but was dropped to the interchange bench before replacing Karmichael Hunt 30 minutes into the match at ANZ Stadium. In Game 2 Slater played off the interchange bench in QLD's 30–0 win in Brisbane. In Game 3, Slater once again started from the interchange bench with Karmichael Hunt starting at fullback. A broken arm to Scott Prince at the 17-minute mark forced Slater to fullback with Karmichael Hunt switching to five eighth. Slater broke the line with his first touch and kick return of the game. He was excellent under the high ball, thwarting many attacking kicks. With just 10 minutes to go, Johnathan Thurston broke the New South Wales line, drawing in the fullback before passing the ball to Slater who ran the remaining 30 metres to score the match-winning try and a 16–10 victory.[35] It was Slater's first series win for Queensland. In Round 19, Slater was involved in an all-in brawl in a match against the St George Illawarra Dragons in the Storms 26–0 win at Olympic Park. He was sin-binned for throwing several punches at winger, Jason Nightingale.[36] He had a two-match suspension downgraded to one match after claiming Nightingale had provoked him with several head-butts throughout the match.

 
Slater playing for the Storm in August 2008.

In August 2008, Slater was named in the preliminary 46-man Kangaroos squad for the 2008 World Cup.[37][38] In September 2008; Slater narrowly missed out on the Dally M Medal, Player of the Year, finishing 2 points behind the Sea Eagles Matt Orford.[39] The one-week suspension in Round 19 deducted 3 points from Slater's tally, which would have won him the medal. Days after playing in the 2008 NRL Grand Final 40–0 defeat the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles,[40] Slater was named the Melbourne club's Player of the Year.[41] Slater played in 24 matches and scored 14 tries for the Storm in the 2008 NRL season.[2] Slater capped off a brilliant year by winning the Rugby League World Golden Boot Award as the best player in the world.[42] In 2008 he also received the Rugby League International Federation's International Player of the Year award.[43]

 
Slater after playing for Australia in the 2008 World Cup final.

In October 2008 Slater was selected in the final 24-man Australian squad but hesitated playing since he and his wife were expecting their first child. Slater went on to play fullback for Australia in the 2008 World Cup, scoring hat-tricks in matches against England (52–4 win at Etihad) & Fiji (52–0 win at SFS). Billy Slater won the Man of the match twice in tournament for his performance in both games. About midway through the second half of the World Cup final Slater, who had set up Australia's first two tries, made a grave misjudgement, Slater threw a wild pass back in field after attempting to go the short side from a kick return and it was snapped up by Benji Marshall for a gift four-pointer. Although Melbourne teammate Greg Inglis bought them back within 2 points with a try, a penalty try, courtesy of a Joel Monaghan infringement, ruled out any possible comeback. Despite his costly error and Australia losing the game 34–20 to New Zealand, Slater was named Player of the Tournament following the World Cup final in Brisbane.[44] Slater was also the competition's top tryscorer with 7 tries.

2009

edit

Slater was selected for Australia in the 2009 Anzac Test match at fullback against New Zealand at Suncorp Stadium in the Kangaroos' 38–10 redemption win over the Kiwis.[45] In April 2009, he was named in the preliminary 25-man squad to represent Queensland in the opening State of Origin match for 2009, and was subsequently picked at fullback for the opening State of Origin match. Slater was the first try scorer in the 2009 State of Origin Series scoring in Queensland's 28–18 win in Sydney.[46] Slater played in the other 2 matches in the Queensland's 2009 winning State of Origin team. In Round 22 against the North Queensland Cowboys at Olympic Park, Slater played 150th NRL career match in the Storms 20–8 win.[47] Melbourne finished the season 4th on the NRL table and avenged their 2008 Grand Final loss to Manly by defeating them 40–12 in the first week of the finals at Etihad Stadium. Slater's four try haul earned him man of the match honours.[48] Slater notched up his 100th NRL career try in Melbourne's 40–10 victory over the Brisbane Broncos in the preliminary final at Etihad Stadium, becoming only the second Melbourne player to do so after Matt Geyer.[49]

 
Slater after the 2009 NRL Grand Final.

In the next week, the Grand Final was won by the Melbourne Storm over the Parramatta Eels 23–16. Again this was also stripped from Melbourne for systematic salary cap cheating. Slater scored a try and was judged best on ground, earning the Clive Churchill Medal.[50] Slater was named the Storms highest tryscorer in the 2009 NRL season with 18 tries in 26 matches.[2] The following week Slater was named Melbourne's Player of the Year making it the second consecutive year he won the award.[51] During the off-season he was given the first 'Player of the Finals' award, presented by the Rugby League Writers' Association.[52]

Slater topped off the season with selection for Australia in the 2009 Four Nations tournament in Europe. Slater played in the first two matches against New Zealand and then England. Slater scored three tries in Australia's 46–16 win over England in the final and also acrobatically tapped the ball back infield setting up a try for teammate, Cameron Smith.[53]

2010

edit
 
Slater playing for Melbourne

For the 2010 Anzac Test, Slater was selected to play for Australia at fullback in their 12–8 victory against New Zealand at AAMI Park.[54] Despite Melbourne being stripped of their 2007 and 2009 premierships due to the discovery of a salary cap breach, Slater was allowed to keep his Clive Churchill Medal.[55] Slater was also involved in Queensland's 3–0 whitewash in the 2010 State of Origin series and received the Wally Lewis Medal for player of the series. In the third match, he saved a certain try, before scoring the match-turning and winning try with five minutes remaining in Queensland's 23–18 win in Sydney.[56] Slater played in 22 matches and scored 10 tries in the Storms drama filled 2010 NRL season in which they were stripped all premiership points, and barred from collecting anymore (Including ones earned from byes) on 22 April as a result of their salary cap breach[2] In the post season, Slater was included in the Australian 2010 Four Nations squad. Slater scored 3 tries in 3 matches, including scoring a try in the Kangaroos 16–12 Four Nations Final match loss to New Zealand at Suncorp Stadium.[57]

2011

edit

In Round 2 against the Gold Coast Titans at AAMI Park the Storms 40–12 win, Slater scored two where he broke the record for the number of tries scored for Melbourne Storm with 114 tries, previously held by Matt Geyer with 113 tries.[58][failed verification] For the 2011 Anzac Test, Slater was selected to play for Australia at fullback, scoring two tries in the Kangaroos 20–10 victory against New Zealand at Cbus Super Stadium.[59] Slater played in all three 2011 State of Origin matches, as fullback for the Queensland Maroons. Slater scored in the last 10 minutes of Game 1 in the Queensland's 16–12 win in Brisbane,[60] and scored in the last 15 minutes of Game 3 in QLD's 34–24 series winning match in Brisbane.[61] In Round 24 against the St George Illawarra Dragons at AAMI Park, Slater played his 200th NRL career match in the Storms 8–6 win.[62] The Melbourne Storm won the minor premiership, but were defeated by the New Zealand Warriors 20–12 in the Preliminary Final at AAMI Park, ending Slater's season.[63] Slater was awarded the 2011 Dally M Medal for best and fairest player of the year in the NRL. Following the awarding of the Dally M Medal, there was commentary about Slater's progress. Sports reporters Ray Warren said that he "didn't think Slater was as good a player as he had been in the past", while Andrew Johns labelled Slater as "the best fullback he has seen".[64] After playing in 24 matches, Slater was the Storms joint highest tryscorer with 12 tries alongside Cooper Cronk and Matt Duffie in the 2011 NRL season.[65] On 3 October, Slater was selected for the Australian Kangaroos, to play as fullback in the 2011 Rugby League Four Nations tournament. While on tour, Slater was named the Rugby League International Federation's International Player of the Year for the second time.[66] Slater suffered a collarbone injury and was ruled out of the tournament after Australia's 36–20 win over England at Wembley Stadium.[67] Slater played in 3 matches of the series.

2012

edit

Slater started the year scoring 9 tries in 5 games, including 2 tries per game in the opening 4 rounds of the season.

For the Anzac Test, Slater was selected to play at fullback in the Kangaroos 20–12 victory against New Zealand at Eden Park.[68] Slater was Queensland's fullback for Games 1 and 2 of the 2012 State of Origin series which saw the Maroons record winning streak extend to seven series. Slater finished the 2012 NRL season with him scoring 16 tries in 21 matches for the Storm, which made him the highest fullback try scorer in the NRL with 140 tries, going past previous holder Rhys Wesser with 129. Slater scored a try in Melbourne's 14–4 premiership victory over Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, where Slater was bitten in the ear by James Graham during a scuffle.[69] Slater was selected at fullback for the Kangaroos October Test against New Zealand at 1300SMILES Stadium. The Kangaroos won the match 18–10.[70]

An established ambassador for Adidas, in 2012 Slater appeared as part of a promotional campaign[71] for their F50 adizero III boots alongside Dale Thomas of Aussie Rules and European football (soccer) player David Villa.

2013

edit

Slater scored the first try in Melbourne's 2013 World Club Challenge 18–14 win over Leeds Rhinos.[72] In the 2013 Anzac Test, Slater played at fullback for Australia in the Kangaroos' 32–12 victory against New Zealand at Canberra Stadium.[73] Slater played all three games of the 2013 State of Origin series in which Queensland extended their record for consecutive series victories to eight. In Round 21 against the Canberra Raiders at Canberra Stadium, Slater also became the 8th player in history of the League to score 150 tries, Slater scoring 2 tries in the Storms 68–4 win.[74] Slater was the Storm's highest tryscorer in the 2013 NRL season with 18 tries in 24 matches.[75] In the post season, Slater was chosen in Australian 24-man squad for the 2013 World Cup which Australia won the Final against New Zealand 34–2 at Old Trafford, where Slater scored 2 tries.[citation needed] Slater played in 4 matches and scored 4 tries in the tournament.[76]

2014

edit

In Round 2 against the Penrith Panthers, Slater reached a milestone of having played 250 games for Melbourne Storm in the 18–17 win at AAMI Park.[77] In the 2014 Anzac Test, Slater played at fullback for Australia in the Kangaroos' 30–18 victory against New Zealand at SFS.[78] Slater played all three games of the 2014 State of Origin series in which Queensland lost the series 2–1, the first series the NSW Blues won since the 2005 series. In Round 22 against the Newcastle Knights in the Storms 32–30 loss at Hunter Stadium, Slater eclipsed Andrew Ettingshausen tryscoring record with 166 tries, Slater now currently being third in the highest tryscorer ranks.[79][80] Slater finished the Storm's 2014 NRL season with him playing in 22 matches and scoring 12 tries.[2] On 9 September 2014, Slater was selected for the Australia Kangaroos 2014 Four Nations train on squad but withdrew due to injury.[81][82]

2015

edit

Slater started the 2015 season, playing featuring in the first 5 rounds of the season. He picked up a shoulder injury in the Storm's 30–14 home game win over the Warriors, which resulted him missing the next 4 weeks of action;[83] including the Kangaroos' Annual Trans-Tasman ANZAC Test match clash to the Kiwis, with Greg Inglis filling his Fullback position.[84] He returned to action in round 8, producing a strong 80-minutes man-of-the-match performance against the Parramatta Eels, scoring 2 tries and producing a try-saving tackle on Semi Radradra.

Carrying a shoulder injury (not 100% fully recovered) from the Storm's Round 5 game (in April) that resulted him being ruled out the Trans-Tasman ANZAC Test,[85] Slater featured for Queensland in Game 1 and Game 2 of the 2015 State of Origin series.[86] After the Storms' Round 10 match against the South Sydney Rabbitohs in the 16–12 win at AAMI Park and following game 2 of the 2015 State of Origin series at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Slater was ruled out of Origin Game 3 (the decider) and for the rest of the 2015 NRL season due to him having surgery on his troublesome injured shoulder (he originally injured in April, in Round 5).[87][88] Slater's incumbent fullback position was filled by Greg Inglis for Queensland for game 3 of the Origin Decider,[89][90] while Cameron Munster who had a stellar year for the Storm filled his Fullback position for the Storm.[91] Slater finished the season with him only playing in 7 matches and scoring 2 tries for the Storm.[2]

2016

edit

After starting round 1 of the 2016 NRL season playing 80-minutes and producing an outstanding performance;[92] Slater was a late withdrawn from the Storm's round 2 clash against the Titans[93][94][95] and after having an arthroscope, he was then later again ruled out for 6–8 months[96][97] as well as for the season; after pulling up sore following the Storm's victory over the Dragons.[98][99][100][101] With speculations surrounding his playing future following that shoulder reconstruction,[102][103] his Melbourne Storm Fullback role was filled again by Cameron Munster.[104]

During his time on the sideline, his Fullback positions was filled by Darius Boyd for both Australia (during the International Trans-Tasman ANZAC Test match, which was played at Newcastle's Hunter Stadium) and Queensland (for the State of Origin Series). Despite still being out of action, he missed being part of Queensland's State of Origin victorious campaign although he worked closely with new Maroons coach Kevin Walters as a consultant[105] during the 2016 State of Origin series period, assisting him in coaching and working with the backs, as well as working closely with the team.[106][107]

Slater also missed being part of Storm's Grand Final home-away-from-home clash to the Cronulla Sharks [108] and Australia's successful Four Nations campaign, as well as missing the first ever Perth International Rugby League Trans-Tasman Test match.[109]

At the end of the 2016 season, Slater was awarded (and received) the Peter Jackson Medal for his outstanding contribution in assisting Kevin Walters with the coaching during the 2016 State of Origin series for Queensland.[110][111]

2017

edit

Slater was set to return to action[112] in the Storm's trial match clash against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs at North Hobart Oval in Hobart, Tasmania.[113][114] However, coach Craig Bellamy opted to rest him for the opening 2 rounds of the 2017 season[115] and Slater had to wait until round 3 to returning to action.[116][117] In Round 3, Slater made his successful return against the Brisbane Broncos at AAMI Park, starting from the bench and playing for 52 minutes in the Storm's 14–12 win.[118][119] The following week, he started at Fullback in the Storm's 22–14 win over the West Tigers playing 80 minutes at Leichhardt Oval, which was his first full-game and away game.[120]

In Round 9, Slater finally broke his long try-scoring drought by scoring 2 tries in a strong man-of-the-match performance in the Storm's 34–22 win over the Dragons.[121][122][123] This was the first time he scored a double of tries, since round 9 of the 2015 season. Despite playing consistently well since coming back from injury; Slater was left out of the Australian Kangaroos Test Squad for the International Trans-Tasman ANZAC Test match to New Zealand,[124] with coach Mal Meninga opted to stay loyal and stick with Darius Boyd at Fullback,[125] as well as the players who were part of last year's successful Four Nations Campaign.[126]

Playing his first game in his home state of Queensland in over 1000 days[127] and since round 4 of the 2015 season (which was against the Cowboys at 1300SMILES Stadium in Townsville) in the NRL Indigenous Round and the Round 10 double-header at Suncorp Stadium; Slater continued his consistent form by producing an outstanding performance scoring a try, setting-up 2 tries, making 8 tackles, 16 runs (174 metres), 2 line-breaks and a line-break assist; despite the Storm narrowly losing 36–38 to the Titans.[128] This was also his first game playing at Suncorp Stadium, since round 20 of the 2014 Season which was against the Brisbane Broncos;[129] despite missing Game 3 (the decider) of the 2015 State of Origin series and last year's Game 2 of the 2016 State of Origin series.

With Greg Inglis already sidelined and ruled out of the season with a season-ending knee injury, Slater was expected to return to the Queensland Squad for the 2017 State of Origin series. Despite this, coach Kevin Walters opted to stick with Darius Boyd at Fullback, keep Justin O'Neill at right centre, Corey Oates at left wing, Dane Gagai at right wing and bring in Will Chambers to play left centre;[130] which resulted him being controversially left out of the Game 1 Squad.[131][132][133] Following Queensland's Origin Game 1 loss to New South Wales,[134] Slater continued-on with his outstanding consistent performances helping the Storm to victories over the Knights[135][136] and Sharks.[137][138] He was then recalled to the Queensland squad[139][140][141][142] along with Johnathan Thurston for game 2,[143][144] which resulted incumbent Australian Test Fullback Darius Boyd shifting to Centre[145] and Justin O'Neill dropped from the team.[146][147][148]

In Game 2 of the Origin Series, Slater produced an outstanding performance setting-up 2 tries (the first try of the game to debutant left winger Valentine Holmes, when he combined with Johnathan Thurston and Darius Boyd; and the game-winning try to right winger Dane Gagai, when he combined with Michael Morgan leading-up to Johnathan Thurston kicking that winning conversion goal) helping QLD to level the series margin to 1-all in the 18–16 win over NSW at ANZ Stadium.[149][150] Slater remained in the team for game 3 and he produced another outstanding performance in the decider, combining with Storm teammates Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk and Cameron Munster in QLD's NRL one-club spine combination; to guide QLD to a series win in the 22–6 victory over NSW at Suncorp Stadium.[151]

Playing his first NRL final series appearance since 2014 (despite missing the 2015 and 2016 play-offs due to shoulder injuries) and during the first week of the NRL play-offs final series; Slater played a key part in his side's 18–16 win over the Parramatta Eels at AAMI Park, scoring a try (his 180th NRL career try) in the 2nd half of the game which resulted him drawing level to former Manly Sea Eagles player Steve Menzies as the game's all-time second-equal highest top try-scorer.[152]

With the Storm fresh off their break (after Week 2 of the NRL Final Series) and after their 18–16 victory over the Parramatta Eels (in the first week of the Final Series), Slater featured in the club's Grand Final qualifier match against the Brisbane Broncos scoring 2 tries (both in the second half – the 59th minute and in the 71st minute) in the 30–0 win, allowing the Storm progressing through to the Grand Final and resulted him to move past Steve Menzies as the game's stand-alone second highest top try-scorer (behind another former Manly Sea Eagles player Ken Irvine, who had scored 212 tries).[153][154][155][156][157]

On 27 September leading into the Grand Final; Slater was awarded the Fullback of the Year Award at the NRL Dally M Awards Event.[158][159]

Playing in the Grand Final at ANZ Stadium on 1 October; Slater produced an outstanding performance guiding the Melbourne Storm to win the 2017 NRL Premiership (their first Premiership since 2012), beating the North Queensland Cowboys 34–6. Following the game, he received the Clive Churchill Medal as the best player on the field.[160][161][162] Two days following the Grand Final victory, Slater was named in the Australian Test Squad for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup Tournament.[163][164][165][166][167][168] He also signed a one-year extension, committing to the Melbourne Storm for the 2018 season.[169]

Playing at Fullback in his first international test match for Australia since 2014, Slater scored a try and produced an outstanding man-of-the-match performance in the 18–4 win over England at Melbourne's AAMI Park.[170][171] The following week, he equaled the record of Bob Fulton and Jarryd Hayne in becoming the Tournament's Top Try-Scorer in Rugby League World Cup history by producing another outstanding performance and scoring his 13th World Cup try (his 24th Test-Career Try) in Australia's 52–6 win over France in Canberra.[172][173] Coach Mal Meninga opted to rest Slater for the Lebanon clash in Sydney, leading into the play-offs. Slater then returned to the starting line-up at Fullback for the quarter-final game, scoring a try in Australia's 46–0 win against Samoa in Darwin.[174][175] He then played in Australia's semi-final game against Fiji, scoring 2 tries (which resulted him breaking the all-time World Cup Try-Scoring Record; scoring his 16th World Cup try, as well as his 27th Test try) in the 52–6 win at Suncorp Stadium, guiding the Australians to the World Cup Grand Final.[176][177][178][179] Playing Fullback in the World Cup Grand Final at Suncorp Stadium, Slater featured in Australia's 6–0 win over England, playing an important role and producing another fine performance in the green-and-gold jersey.[176][180][181]

2018

edit

Slater started the season, sitting out of the Round 1 game (to the Bulldogs in Perth) due to injury. He returned to the field in Round 2, playing his 300th NRL Career game in the 8–10 loss the West Tigers at AAMI Park.[182]

Slater earned criticism during a home Round 6 game against the Newcastle Knights where he was accused of diving which led second-rower Lachlan Fitzgibbon to be sin-binned. While Slater had the right to go for a quick-tap because he was outside the 10-metre, many disapproved when Fitzgibbon stuck out his hand out on shoulder lightly to make Slater hit the deck. Both fans and social media users were questioning the physics of Slater falling, thus drawing accusations of diving.[183][184]

Slater also captained the Melbourne Storm for the first time in his NRL Career and during Cameron Smith's suspension absence, against the Manly Sea Eagles in the 4–24 loss during Round 11.[185]

Slater announced his intentions to retire from representative football after the 2018 State of Origin series and was yet to make a decision on playing only at the club level in 2019.[186]

Slater was set to play in the opening game of the Origin series at the MCG; however, he withdrew from the Game 1 squad due to a hamstring injury, in what would have been his last Origin match in Melbourne.[187] He returned from injury in game 2 to play his 30th Origin game, producing an outstanding performance despite Queensland losing game 2 and the series in New South Wales' home game victory at ANZ Stadium.[188]

Following an injury to Queensland teammate and captain Greg Inglis, Slater was named captain for game 3 in his final Origin game. Producing yet another outstanding performance, Slater led Queensland to an 18–12 victory at Suncorp Stadium, thus avoiding a potential 3–0 series whitewash by New South Wales. For his efforts, Slater received the Wally Lewis Medal for Player of the Series, despite having only participated in two of the three Origin games and Queensland's overall series loss.[189]

On 8 August, Slater announced that he would be retiring from the NRL at the end of the 2018 season.[190] He played his final game, a grand final loss to the Sydney Roosters, on 30 September 2018.[191]

Post-playing career

edit

On 10 October 2018, Slater joined Australian Football League (AFL) club St Kilda in a leadership role. He also joined the Nine Network’s NRL commentary team in 2019[192] On 14 March 2019 Melbourne Storm Announced the renaming of the Northern Stand of AAMI Park to Slater Stand. On 30 August 2019, Slater was chosen at Fullback in the Queensland Maroons team of the decade.

Coach of Queensland

edit

Billy was selected as the Queensland Maroons Head Coach on 24 September 2021 on a two-year deal.[193] Slater coached the Queensland Maroons to a shock series victory in the 2022 State of Origin series. He followed this up with victory in the 2023 State of Origin series. In September 2023, he signed a three-year extension to coach the team.[194]

Hall of Fame

edit

In August 2024, the National Rugby League announced that Slater was an inductee into the National Rugby League Hall of Fame. Slater, who was ascribed Hall of Fame number 122, was amongst eleven male players in the 2024 Class.[195]

Honours

edit

Statistics

edit

NRL

edit

[2]

† Denotes seasons in which Slater won an NRL Premiership
† Denotes seasons in which Slater won an NRL Premiership that was later stripped
Season Team Matches T G GK % F/G Pts W L D W-L %
2003   Melbourne Storm 26 19 0 — 0 76 16 10 0 61.54
2004 22 14 0 — 0 56 12 10 0 54.55
2005 21 20 0 — 0 80 12 9 0 57.14
2006 15 5 0 — 0 20 12 3 0 80.00
2007† 23 12 0 — 0 48 20 3 0 86.96
2008 24 14 0 — 0 56 19 5 0 79.17
2009† 26 18 0 — 0 72 16 9 1 61.54
2010 22 10 0 — 0 40 13 9 0 59.09
2011 24 12 0 — 0 48 19 5 0 79.17
2012† 21 16 0 — 0 64 19 2 0 90.48
2013 24 18 0 — 0 72 16 7 1 66.67
2014 22 12 0 — 0 48 13 9 0 59.09
2015 7 2 0 — 0 8 5 2 0 71.43
2016 1 0 0 — 0 0 1 0 0 100.00
2017† 21 11 0 — 0 44 19 2 0 90.48
2018 20 7 0 — 0 28 12 8 0 60.00
Career totals 323 190 0 — 0 760 224 93 2 70.22

State of Origin

edit
[198]
† Denotes years in which Slater won a State of Origin series
Season Team Matches T G GK % F/G Pts W L D W-L %
2004 Queensland 3 3 0 — 0 12 1 2 0 33.33
2005 Queensland 2 1 0 — 0 4 1 1 0 50.00
2008† Queensland 3 1 0 — 0 4 2 1 0 66.66
2009† Queensland 3 2 0 — 0 8 2 1 0 66.66
2010† Queensland 3 2 0 — 0 8 3 0 0 100.00
2011† Queensland 3 2 0 — 0 8 2 1 0 66.66
2012† Queensland 2 0 0 — 0 0 1 1 0 50.00
2013† Queensland 3 0 0 — 0 0 2 1 0 66.66
2014 Queensland 3 1 0 — 0 4 1 2 0 33.33
2015† Queensland 2 0 0 — 0 0 1 1 0 50.00
2016 Queensland 0 — — — — — — — — —
2017† Queensland 2 0 0 — 0 0 2 0 0 100.00
2018 Queensland 2 0 0 — 0 0 1 1 0 50.00
Career totals 31 12 0 — 0 48 18 12 0 60.00

Australia

edit
[199]
† Denotes years in which Slater won a World Cup Title
† Denotes years in which Slater won a Four Nations Title
Season Team Matches T G GK % F/G Pts W L D W-L %
2008 Australia 5 7 0 — 0 28 4 1 0 80.00
2009† Australia 4 6 0 — 0 24 3 0 1 75.00
2010 Australia 4 3 0 — 0 12 3 1 0 75.00
2011† Australia 4 2 0 — 0 8 4 0 0 100.00
2012 Australia 2 0 0 — 0 0 2 0 0 100.00
2013† Australia 5 4 0 — 0 16 5 0 0 100.00
2014 Australia 1 0 0 — 0 0 1 0 0 100.00
2015 Australia 0 — — — — — — — — —
2016 Australia 0 — — — — — — — — —
2017† Australia 5 5 0 — 0 20 5 0 0 100.00
Career totals 30 27 0 — 0 128 27 2 1 90.00

Personal life

edit

Slater lives in Melbourne with his wife, Nicole Slater (née Rose). They were married in Cairns in November 2009[200] and have two children, a daughter, Tyla Rose and a son, Jake.[6][201]

Billy Slater participated in the television show Australia's Greatest Athlete and was the winner for both Season 1 (broadcast on Channel 9) and Season 2 (on Channel 7) against a diverse range of athletes such as Olympic gold medalist Steve Hooker, ironman Ky Hurst and V8 Supercar champions Jamie Whincup and Craig Lowndes.[citation needed]

A regular contributor to Canterbury Junior Football Club in Melbourne, Slater also frequently gives up his time to help other Junior Sport Programs around Australia.[citation needed]

See also

edit

References

edit
  1. ^ "Segment: Player Probe (Part 2): What was your nickname as a kid?". The Footy Show (NRL). Season 21. Episode 1. 6 March 2014. Retrieved 28 August 2018.[dead YouTube link]
  2. ^ a b c d e f g "Billy Slater – Career Stats & Summary". Rugby League Project. Retrieved 1 October 2018.
  3. ^ "loverugbyleague". Archived from the original on 31 May 2019. Retrieved 22 December 2018.
  4. ^ "Slater: I wanted to be a Cowboy". SBS News. AAP. 2 September 2017. Archived from the original on 5 August 2018. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  5. ^ Glover, Ben (2 September 2017). "How Melbourne star Billy Slater slipped through fingers of North Queensland Cowboys". Fox Sports Australia. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  6. ^ a b Lane, Daniel (6 August 2011). "Slater: Stable upbringing gave me work ethic to be a winner". League HQ. The Age. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 21 September 2013. Retrieved 17 October 2011.
  7. ^ Magnay, Jacquelin (1 March 2003). "Resilient Storm subdues Sharks". The Age. Sydney: Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 26 October 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  8. ^ "Teenager Slater lifts Storm hopes". The Age. Fairfax Media. AAP. 2 March 2003. Archived from the original on 26 October 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  9. ^ "Broncos calm the Storm". The Age. Fairfax Media. AAP. 1 May 2003. Archived from the original on 26 October 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  10. ^ "NRL 2003 – Melbourne Storm". Rugby League Project. Archived from the original on 8 March 2018. Retrieved 7 October 2018.
  11. ^ "Blues seal origin win". The Age. Fairfax Media. AAP. 2 May 2004. Archived from the original on 26 October 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  12. ^ Mascord, Steve (1 June 2004). "Slater stars in Maroon triumph". The Age. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 26 October 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  13. ^ "Blues deliver fairytale farewell for Fittler". The Age. Fairfax Media. AAP. 8 July 2004. Archived from the original on 26 October 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  14. ^ Fuller, Mark (2 September 2004). "Bulldogs again bite Storm". The Age. Sydney: Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 26 October 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  15. ^ "NRL 2004 – Melbourne Storm". Rugby League Project. Archived from the original on 8 March 2018. Retrieved 7 October 2018.
  16. ^ "Kangaroos tour marred by injuries". Injury Update. Archived from the original on 12 February 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  17. ^ Prichard, Greg (1 June 2005). "All hail Joey, the new Origin king". Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  18. ^ Masters, Roy (5 July 2005). "Slater axing has fans all at sea". Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  19. ^ MacSmith, James (1 September 2005). "Season over for Melbourne". The Age. Sydney: Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 26 October 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  20. ^ Walter, Brad; Jackson, Glenn (6 April 2006). "Origin hopes dashed: Slater slugged seven games". Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  21. ^ Berry, Jamie (4 June 2006). "Inglis magic helps Storm prevail". The Age. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 26 October 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  22. ^ Walter, Brad (8 July 2006). "Slick Slater helps Storm roll on". Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  23. ^ Paxinos, Stathi (6 August 2006). "Melbourne mauls Tigers". The Age. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 26 October 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  24. ^ MacSmith, James (2 August 2006). "Storm turn party-poopers to crash Raiders' farewell show". Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  25. ^ "NRL grand final live: Storm v Broncos". League HQ. 1 October 2006. Archived from the original on 13 November 2014. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  26. ^ "Custom Match List". Rugby League Project. Retrieved 8 October 2018.
  27. ^ "Manly home in one-point thriller". The Age. Fairfax Media. AAP. 2 May 2007. Archived from the original on 26 October 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  28. ^ "Storm Rides Out Sharks Alert". Foxsports.com.au. Archived from the original on 12 February 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  29. ^ "Custom Match List". Rugby League Project. Retrieved 8 October 2018.
  30. ^ a b Ice777 (2 June 2007). "Storm team of the decade". League Unlimited. Retrieved 8 October 2018.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  31. ^ Webster, Andrew (1 March 2008). "Storm show attack is the best form of a title defence". Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  32. ^ "Slater shines in Storm romp". ABC Grandstand. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 1 April 2008. Archived from the original on 23 September 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  33. ^ Jackson, Glenn (1 May 2008). "Kangaroos outclass Kiwis in Centenary Test". Brisbane Times. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 23 September 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  34. ^ "Craig Bellamy Turns Blues Magician". The Courier-Mail. Archived from the original on 12 February 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  35. ^ "Queensland win decider for three-in-a-row". Brisbane Times.
  36. ^ Stevenson, Andrew (2 July 2008). "Dragons go down with a fight". Brisbane Times. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 23 September 2015.
  37. ^ FitzGibbon, Liam (1 August 2008). "Surprises in Kangaroos squad". Fox Sports News. Australia. Archived from the original on 8 August 2008. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  38. ^ "Veteran Lockyer named in Australian squad". International Herald Tribune. New York Times. Associated Press. 1 August 2008. Archived from the original on 16 September 2008. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  39. ^ Webster, Andrew (1 September 2008). "Orford takes top gong as Slater knocks himself out". Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  40. ^ "Manly Cruise to Grand Final Victory". Fox Sports Australia. AAP. 5 October 2008. Archived from the original on 14 February 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  41. ^ "Slater is Storm Player of the Year". The Daily Telegraph. 1 October 2008. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  42. ^ "Slater Wins Golden Boot". Fox Sports. Archived from the original on 12 February 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  43. ^ "Awards". Rugby League International Federation. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 5 December 2013.
  44. ^ a b "New Zealand humble Kangaroos in World Cup final in Brisbane". Fox Sports News. Australia. 2 November 2008. Archived from the original on 30 December 2012. Retrieved 23 November 2008.
  45. ^ "Australia Beats New Zealand 38–10 in ANZAC Test". Couriermail.com.au. Archived from the original on 11 February 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  46. ^ Ritchie, Dean (3 June 2009). "Queensland beat NSW 28–18 in State of Origin I in Melbourne". The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  47. ^ "Storm Claim Another Home Win Over Cowboys". Fox Sports Australia. Archived from the original on 12 February 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  48. ^ "Storm Demolish Sea Eagles 40–12". Fox Sports Australia. Archived from the original on 12 February 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  49. ^ Mascord, Steve (2 September 2009). "Inglis leads as Storm front gathers strength". Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  50. ^ a b Gould, Russell (4 October 2009). "Melbourne Storm wins NRL grand final 23–16 over Parramatta Eels". The Herald Sun. Archived from the original on 14 October 2009. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  51. ^ a b "Slater named Player-of-the-Year". Melbourne Storm News. 9 October 2009. Retrieved 6 September 2011.[permanent dead link‍]
  52. ^ "Billy Slater adds to trophy cabinet with Player of the Finals award". The Courier-Mail. News Corp. AAP. 2 February 2010. Retrieved 11 October 2018.
  53. ^ Jancetic, Steve (1 November 2009). "Slater hat-trick as Kangaroos slaughter England". The Brisbane Times. Australia. AAP. Archived from the original on 9 October 2012. Retrieved 6 September 2011.
  54. ^ "Kangaroos v New Zealand Trans Tasman Test at AAMI Park in Melbourne". The Courier-Mail. News Corp. 7 May 2010. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  55. ^ deKroo, Karl; Ritchie, Dean (2 April 2010). "How Melbourne Storm bought its way to top with salary cap rort". The Courier-Mail. News Corp. Retrieved 6 September 2011.
  56. ^ "Maroons in Clean Sweep in State of Origin". The Herald Sun. News Corp. AAP. 8 July 2010. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  57. ^ Ricketts, Steve (1 November 2010). "Kangaroos crack again as New Zealand wins Four Nations final 16–12". The Courier-Mail. News Corp. Retrieved 12 October 2018.
  58. ^ Marshall, Matt (2 March 2011). "Storm 40 d Titans 12: Shattered Scott Prince says Titans embarrassed". The Courier-Mail. News Corp. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  59. ^ Ricketts, Steve (7 May 2011). "Billy Slater stars as Australia beats New Zealand 20–10 at Skilled Park". The Courier-Mail. News Corp. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  60. ^ "Queensland Host NSW in 2011 State of Origin Opener". Foxsports.com.au. Archived from the original on 30 December 2014. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  61. ^ "Johnathan Thurston injured as Queensland mark Darren Lockyer's farewell with crushing win over NSW". Fox Sports Australia. AAP. 6 July 2011. Archived from the original on 14 February 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  62. ^ Massoud, Josh (1 August 2011). "Storm beat Dragons in tight tussle". The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  63. ^ "The Warriors stun Melbourne Storm 20–12 at AAMI Park to book place in NRL grand final". Fox Sports Australia. 2 September 2011. Archived from the original on 14 February 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  64. ^ Frost, Joe (1 March 2018). "Joey heaps praise on 'the best fullback there's been'". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Retrieved 15 October 2018.
  65. ^ Gould, Russell (7 September 2011). "Billy Slater wins Dally M Medal". The Herald Sun. News Corp. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  66. ^ Hooper, James (3 November 2011). "Billy Slater voted 2011 International Player of the Year for 2011". The Herald Sun. News Corp. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  67. ^ Stott, Julie (6 November 2011). "Gillette Four Nations 2011: England target rematch with Australia in final after unlucky 36–20 defeat at Wembley". The Telegraph (UK). Archived from the original on 12 February 2015.
  68. ^ "Lowdown on Test Blockbuster". The Daily Telegraph. Archived from the original on 19 November 2014. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  69. ^ Balym, Todd (1 October 2012). "Billy Slater makes 'bite' claim against Bulldogs forward James Graham in NRL grand final". The Herald Sun. News Corp. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  70. ^ "Australia Grind It Out in Second Half to Win 18–10 over New Zealand in Townsville Test Match". Foxsports.com.au. Archived from the original on 21 November 2014. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  71. ^ Cronin, Tim (19 November 2012). "Billy Slater Hits Barcelona To Promote The New adidas F50s". RugbyBoots.net. Archived from the original on 31 March 2013. Retrieved 28 November 2012.
  72. ^ Katralis, George (2 February 2013). "Melbourne Storm win World Club Challenge against Leeds Rhinos". Australian Times. Blue Sky Publications. Archived from the original on 12 February 2015.
  73. ^ Webster, Andrew (2 April 2013). "Kangaroos triumph against New Zealand sends ominous warning". The Daily Telegraph. Archived from the original on 20 April 2013. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  74. ^ Crawley, Paul (5 August 2013). "Melbourne Storm notch huge 68–4 win over Canberra Raiders in NRL round 21". The Daily Telegraph. Archived from the original on 12 September 2013. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  75. ^ "NRL 2013 – Melbourne Storm". Rugby League Project. Retrieved 16 October 2018.
  76. ^ "World Cup 2013 – Squads". Rugby League Project. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 16 October 2018.
  77. ^ Smart, Nick (1 March 2014). "The Melbourne Storm have beaten the Penrith Panthers 18–17 in a thriller at AAMI Park". Fox Sports Australia. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  78. ^ Barrett, Chris (2 May 2014). "Australia get the victory but New Zealand take the plaudits after giving world champions a scare". The Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 2 May 2014. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  79. ^ Dillon, Robert (9 August 2014). "Newcastle Knights beat Melbourne Storm as Kurt Gidley scores with post-siren goal in NRL thriller". The Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 9 August 2014. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  80. ^ Swales, Kris (2 June 2014). "Slater sets his sights on semi-Immortality". The Roar. Archived from the original on 26 June 2014. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  81. ^ "Kanagroos Four Nations train-on squad named". League Unlimited. 1 September 2014. Archived from the original on 12 February 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  82. ^ Laybourn, Ian (2 September 2014). "Four Nations Series 2014: Billy Slater joins growing list of absent Australia stars as he suffers shoulder injury". The Independent. Archived from the original on 22 September 2014.
  83. ^ Gould, Russell (8 April 2015). "Billy Slater out for a month with shoulder injury sustained via Manu Vatuvei hit". The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  84. ^ Badel, Peter (2 April 2015). "Billy Slater says he's no certainty to play in Friday's Anzac Test against the Kiwis". The Courier-Mail. News Corp. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  85. ^ Badel, Peter (2 May 2015). "State of Origin 2015: Billy Slater facing third shoulder operation — after Origin series". The Courier-Mail. News Corp. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  86. ^ "State of Origin 2015: Billy Slater to play Game II in what could be final match of 2015 season". Fox Sports Australia. 1 June 2015. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  87. ^ Badel, Peter (1 June 2015). "State of Origin 2015: Maroons face nightmare of losing both Billy Slater and Cooper Cronk for decider". The Courier-Mail. News Corp. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  88. ^ Smart, Nick (1 June 2015). "State of Origin 2015: Billy Slater must choose surgery or Game III decider after another stellar game". Herald Sun. News Corp. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  89. ^ "Billy Slater to miss State of Origin III and remainder of NRL season because of shoulder injury". ABC News. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. AAP. 1 June 2015. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  90. ^ "Slater out, GI set to be Qld Origin No.1". SBS News. Special Broadcasting Service. AAP. 1 June 2015. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  91. ^ Carayannis, Michael (2 August 2015). "Injured Melbourne Storm fullback Billy Slater assumes coaching role in guiding Cameron Munster". The Age. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
  92. ^ "Melbourne Storm mark Billy Slater's return with hard-fought 18–16 win over St George Illawarra". ABC News. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 7 March 2016. Archived from the original on 9 March 2016. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  93. ^ Hinds, Richard (1 March 2016). "Cameron Munster stars in relief of Billy Slater as Melbourne down the Gold Coast 34–16". The Daily Telegraph. Archived from the original on 17 April 2016. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  94. ^ Smart, Nick (1 March 2016). "Billy Slater out indefinitely following another shoulder injury". The Daily Telegraph. Archived from the original on 2 April 2016. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  95. ^ Smart, Nick (1 March 2016). "Billy Slater sidelined indefinitely with another shoulder injury". The Herald Sun. Archived from the original on 17 April 2016. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  96. ^ "Billy Slater injury update". Queensland Rugby League. National Rugby League. 1 March 2016. Archived from the original on 18 March 2016. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  97. ^ Smart, Nick (1 March 2016). "Defiant Billy Slater says he won't give up despite missing six to eight months after shoulder surgery". The Herald Sun. Archived from the original on 17 March 2016. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  98. ^ "Slater ruled out for eight months". NRL.com. 1 March 2016. Archived from the original on 16 March 2016. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  99. ^ "Billy Slater's NRL season almost definitely over after surgery on troublesome shoulder injury". ABC News. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 1 March 2016. Archived from the original on 15 March 2016. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  100. ^ "Kev Says Losing Billy A Big Blow For Maroons". Fogs Queensland. 2 March 2016. Archived from the original on 17 June 2016. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  101. ^ "Craig Bellamy says Billy Slater's Melbourne Storm season over, future uncertain". Sydney Morning Herald. 1 March 2016. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  102. ^ Ward, Roy (1 March 2016). "NRL 2016: Melbourne Storm's Billy Slater wants to play on despite more shoulder problems". The Age. Archived from the original on 17 March 2016. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  103. ^ "Billy Slater expects to play on". SBS News. Special Broadcasting Service. AAP. 2 April 2016. Archived from the original on 10 October 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  104. ^ Smart, Nick (3 September 2016). "Cameron Munster happy to give fullback role to Billy Slater as he eyes grand final glory with Storm". The Herald Sun. Archived from the original on 4 October 2016. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  105. ^ "State Of Origin: Billy Slater in camp with Queensland Maroons as coach, hints at possible post-playing career". ABC News. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. AAP. 2 May 2016. Archived from the original on 28 May 2016. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  106. ^ Badel, Peter (1 May 2016). "Kevin Walters has hired Billy Slater to help continue the Maroons' golden Origin dynasty". The Courier-Mail. Archived from the original on 1 June 2016. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  107. ^ "Kevin Walters says Billy Slater's advice in coach's box during Game One was invaluable". The Herald Sun.
  108. ^ Woods, Melissa (2 September 2016). "Storm's Slater close to grand final". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 1 November 2016. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  109. ^ "Cronk backs forgotten man Slater to return". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. AAP. 2 November 2016. Archived from the original on 22 November 2016. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  110. ^ "Slater receives Peter Jackson Medal". Melbourne Storm. National Rugby League. 5 December 2016. Archived from the original on 10 October 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  111. ^ Badel, Peter (5 December 2016). "Darius Boyd has continued his outstanding 2016 season, winning the Ron McAuliffe Medal". The Courier-Mail. Archived from the original on 15 December 2016. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  112. ^ "Billy Slater ready to take major step in NRL comeback". Canberra Times. AAP. 9 January 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  113. ^ "Hobart a chance for Slater to step out". The Mercury.
  114. ^ Barnsley, Warren (1 January 2017). "Slater to return in Melbourne's NRL trials". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 21 January 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  115. ^ Woods, Melissa (2 February 2017). "Slater set to miss opening NRL rounds". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 12 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  116. ^ Encarnacion, Matt (1 March 2017). "Storm's Slater named for NRL return". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 12 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  117. ^ Clark, Laine (1 March 2017). "Nervous Slater will bounce back: Smith". Wide World of Sports. Archived from the original on 15 March 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  118. ^ Woods, Melissa (1 March 2017). "Storm snatch 14–12 NRL win over Brisbane". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 19 March 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  119. ^ Honeysett, Stuart (1 March 2017). "'Nervous' Billy Slater glad to be back into the NRL fold". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 19 March 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  120. ^ Gardiner, Gilbert (2 March 2017). "Billy Slater says his focus is on a week at a time, not Origin or the end of his contract". The Herald Sun. Archived from the original on 28 March 2017. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  121. ^ Gabor, Martin (3 April 2017). "Storm's back three fire to beat Dragons". NRL.com. Telstra Media. Archived from the original on 30 April 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  122. ^ "Slater, Vunivalu star as Storm trash Dragons". The Daily Telegraph.
  123. ^ Gould, Phil (3 April 2017). "Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk and Billy Slater the reason behind Melbourne's success". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  124. ^ "Billy Slater's Test career not over, says Australian Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga". Sydney Morning Herald. 2 April 2017. Archived from the original on 26 April 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  125. ^ Coughlan, Matt (3 March 2017). "Boyd set to pip Slater for Kangaroos spot". NRL.com. Telstra Media. AAP. Archived from the original on 1 April 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  126. ^ "2017 Anzac Test: Australia coach Mal Meninga names strong Kangaroos squad to face New Zealand". Sydney Morning Herald. 2 April 2017. Archived from the original on 26 April 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  127. ^ Arnold, Rikki-Lee (1 May 2017). "State of Origin: Billy Slater presents Maroons credentials in dazzling return to Suncorp". The Daily Telegraph. Archived from the original on 19 May 2017. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  128. ^ Meyn, Travis (1 May 2017). "History made as Gold Coast beat Melbourne 38–36 in match of the season". The Courier-Mail. News Corp. Archived from the original on 19 May 2017. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  129. ^ "Cameron Smith admits choosing between Billy Slater and Darius Boyd for Maroons Origin No.1 will be tough". The Courier-Mail. News Corp. 1 May 2017. Archived from the original on 19 May 2017. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  130. ^ "State of Origin: Queensland names Darius Boyd at full-back ahead of Billy Slater". ABC News. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 2 May 2017. Archived from the original on 22 May 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  131. ^ Graham, Brett (2 May 2017). "Billy Slater left out of Queensland State of Origin team". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 25 May 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  132. ^ Zalunardo, Paul (2 May 2017). "State of Origin 2017: 'Disappointed' Billy Slater understands why he was left out of Queensland Maroons side to play NSW Blues". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 29 May 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  133. ^ "State of Origin: Bob Katter fumes over Billy Slater's Maroons snub, savages Darius Boyd selection". ABC News. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 2 May 2017. Archived from the original on 24 May 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  134. ^ Encarnacion, Matt (1 June 2017). "More ex-Maroons call for Origin II changes". World Wide of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 5 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  135. ^ Zalunardo, Paul (2 June 2017). "NRL 2017: Melbourne Storm star Billy Slater stakes claim for State of Origin return". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 4 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  136. ^ Barnsley, Warren (5 June 2017). "Thurston, Slater on track for Qld: Walters". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 5 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  137. ^ Gould, Phil (8 June 2017). "Sometimes you just have to stand and applaud: Storm's best come in the clutch to beat Sharks". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 11 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  138. ^ Bailey, Scott (8 June 2017). "Slater presses Origin case in Storm win". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 11 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  139. ^ "State of Origin: Queensland Maroons recall Johnathan Thurston, Billy Slater, pick Tim Glasby for Game II". ABC News. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 1 June 2017. Archived from the original on 12 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  140. ^ "We'll Need All Of Billy Slater's Greatness". Triple M. Southern Cross Austereo. 1 June 2017.
  141. ^ "Kevin Walters wields the axe ahead of Origin II". News.com.au. News Corp. AAP. 2 September 2016. Archived from the original on 13 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  142. ^ "Billy Slater feared he wouldn't be selected for Queensland again". The Courier-Mail. News Corp. AAP. 1 June 2017. Archived from the original on 13 June 2017. Retrieved 14 June 2017.
  143. ^ "State of Origin: Johnathan Thurston and Billy Slater back for Queensland". Sky Sports. Sky UK. AFP. 1 June 2017. Archived from the original on 15 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  144. ^ Glover, Ben (1 June 2017). "Stats Insider: The method behind Queensland Maroons Origin selection madness". Fox Sports (Australia). Archived from the original on 16 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  145. ^ Effeney, Patrick (1 June 2017). "State of Origin teams: Queensland Maroons confirm line-up for Game 2". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 18 June 2017. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  146. ^ Mirzabegian, Sacha (2 May 2017). "State of Origin 2017: Billy Slater to return for Maroons in game II". Wide World of Sports. Nine Digital. Archived from the original on 11 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  147. ^ Walsh, Dan (1 June 2017). "Queensland Maroons axe six stars, blood four rookies and welcome back Billy Slater, Johnathan Thurston". Fox Sports (Australia). Archived from the original on 16 June 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  148. ^ "Maroons make seven changes for Origin II". SBS News. Special Broadcasting Service. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
  149. ^ "Emotional Billy Slater As an Origin Hero". The Australian. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  150. ^ "State of Origin II: Queensland Maroons secure stunning comeback win over NSW Blues". ABC News. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 2 June 2017. Archived from the original on 22 June 2017. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  151. ^ Colasimone, Dan (1 July 2017). "Maroons crush Blues in game three to continue era of dominance". ABC News. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Archived from the original on 13 July 2017. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  152. ^ Marmont, Andrew (9 September 2017). "Storm edge Eels to book home prelim". NRL.com. Telstra Media. Archived from the original on 9 September 2017. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  153. ^ "Stats That Matter – Preliminary Final". Melbourne Storm. Telstra Media. 2 September 2017. Archived from the original on 23 September 2017. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  154. ^ Ward, Roy (2 September 2017). "Billy Slater joyful as Storm make grand final, recalls pain of missing last year's decider". The Sydney Morning Herald. Archived from the original on 23 September 2017. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  155. ^ "Slater's long road back to NRL grand final". SBS News. Special Broadcasting Service. AAP. Archived from the original on 23 September 2017. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  156. ^ "Slater surges to NRL greatness". Melbourne Storm. Telstra Media. 2 September 2017. Archived from the original on 24 September 2017. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  157. ^ "Doctor John Trantalis Reveals How He Never Thought Billy Slater Would Play Rugby League Again". The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  158. ^ a b Ritchie, Dean (2 September 2017). "Slater seals comeback with Dally M nod". The Daily Telegraph. Archived from the original on 29 September 2017. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  159. ^ "Dally M Awards: Billy Slater named fullback in team of the year". Fox Sports. 2 September 2017. Retrieved 3 October 2017.
  160. ^ a b Ryan, Nathan (2 October 2017). "Nicole Slater opens up on Melbourne fullback Billy Slater's road to recovery". Fox Sports. Retrieved 5 October 2017.
  161. ^ Bilton, Dean (1 October 2017). "Melbourne Storm win NRL grand final 34–6 against North Queensland Cowboys to claim third premiership". ABC News. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Archived from the original on 4 October 2017. Retrieved 5 October 2017.
  162. ^ "Billy Slater fights back the tears in emotional speech after Melbourne Storm wins NRL Grand Final". The Herald-Sun. 2 October 2017. Archived from the original on 4 October 2017. Retrieved 5 October 2017.
  163. ^ "Slater completes incredible comeback". The Courier-Mail. Retrieved 5 October 2017.
  164. ^ Browning, Jen (3 October 2017). "Billy Slater's Australia call up for Rugby League World Cup completes remarkable comeback". ABC News. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Archived from the original on 4 October 2017. Retrieved 5 October 2017.
  165. ^ Chammas, Michael (3 October 2017). "Kangaroos and Storm star Billy Slater the game's greatest fullback: Meninga". The Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 4 October 2017. Retrieved 5 October 2017.
  166. ^ "Seven Storm players named in Kangaroos Rugby League World Cup squad". NZ Herald. 3 October 2017. Archived from the original on 5 October 2017. Retrieved 5 October 2017.
  167. ^ "Rugby League World Cup: Australia squad features seven Melbourne Storm players". BBC Sport. British Broadcasting Corporation. 3 October 2017. Archived from the original on 3 October 2017. Retrieved 5 October 2017.
  168. ^ "Australian Kangaroos RL World Cup squad named: Team list, Felise Kaufusi, Ben Hunt". Fox Sports. 3 October 2017. Retrieved 5 October 2017.
  169. ^ Gardiner, Gilbert (3 October 2017). "Billy Slater to sign new one-year deal with Melbourne Storm and play on through 2018". The Herald Sun. News Corp. Archived from the original on 6 October 2017. Retrieved 5 October 2017.
  170. ^ Gardiner, Gilbert (2 October 2017). "Billy Slater stars as Australia downs England 18–4 in World Cup opener". News.com.au. News Corp. Archived from the original on 29 October 2017. Retrieved 27 October 2017 – via The Herald-Sun.
  171. ^ Marmont, Andrew (2 October 2017). "Aussies edge England in Cup opener". NRL.com. Archived from the original on 27 October 2017. Retrieved 27 October 2017.
  172. ^ Gabor, Martin (3 November 2017). "French fried by Graham masterclass". NRL.com. Telstra Media. Archived from the original on 3 November 2017. Retrieved 4 November 2017.
  173. ^ "Kangaroos score 10 tries to defeat France 52–6 in Canberra". The Daily Telegraph. 3 November 2017. Retrieved 4 November 2017.
  174. ^ "'Woeful' Samoa buried in Darwin". The Australian.
  175. ^ Gabor, Martin (1 November 2017). "Holmes bags five as Roos thump Samoa". NRL.com. Archived from the original on 18 November 2017.
  176. ^ a b Richards, Eden (2 December 2017). "Australia edge England in World Cup final". NRL.com. Archived from the original on 2 December 2017.
  177. ^ "Valentine Holmes Wasn't The Only Kangaroo To Enter The Record Books Last Night". Triple M. 2 November 2017.
  178. ^ Marmont, Andrew (2 November 2017). "Holmes scores six as Australia thumps Fiji". NRL.com. Telstra Media. Archived from the original on 24 November 2017.
  179. ^ "Rugby League World Cup: Australia beats Fiji 54–6 at Lang Park to cruise into the final". ABC News. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. AAP. 2 November 2017. Archived from the original on 24 November 2017.
  180. ^ Chammas, Michael (3 December 2017). "Kangaroos save the best for last". NRL.com. Telstra Media. Archived from the original on 4 December 2017.
  181. ^ Richards, Eden (3 December 2017). "Meninga hails Kangaroos defence". NRL.com. Archived from the original on 15 August 2018.
  182. ^ "Slater set for 300th on Saturday night". Melbourne Storm. National Rugby League. 1 March 2018. Archived from the original on 13 March 2018. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  183. ^ "Billy Slater dive video, Lachlan Fitzgibbon sin bin: Storm fullback called out for another dive". Fox Sports. 1 April 2018. Archived from the original on 17 June 2018. Retrieved 14 April 2018.
  184. ^ "Billy Slater accused of milking a penalty which led to Lachlan Fitzgibbon sin-binning". Sporting News. 1 April 2018. Archived from the original on 14 April 2018. Retrieved 14 April 2018.
  185. ^ Ward, Roy (1 May 2018). "Billy Slater proud to skipper Storm, won't push for Maroons captaincy". Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 21 May 2018. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  186. ^ Matthey, James (2 May 2018). "Billy Slater drops Origin bombshell". News.com.au. Retrieved 28 July 2018.
  187. ^ Nicolussi, Christian; Pengilly, Adam (4 June 2018). "Billy Slater ruled out of Origin I with training hamstring injury". Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Archived from the original on 24 November 2018. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  188. ^ Sankey, Daniel (2 June 2018). "State of Origin 2018 Game 2: NSW vs Queensland, live coverage from ANZ Stadium". The Australian. News Corp. AAP. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  189. ^ a b Otto, Tyson (1 July 2018). "State of Origin, Game Three at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane". News.com.au. News Corp. AAP. Archived from the original on 14 July 2018. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  190. ^ Ward, Roy (8 August 2018). "Storm's Slater retires from the NRL on his terms". Sydney Morning Herald. Fairfax Media. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  191. ^ Otto, Tyson (1 October 2018). "NRL grand final 2018 talking points". News.com.au. News Corp. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  192. ^ "Billy Slater is with St Kilda". St Kilda Football Club. Telstra Media. 1 October 2018. Archived from the original on 10 October 2018. Retrieved 10 October 2018.
  193. ^ "Slater confirmed as new Maroons coach". QRL. 6 June 2024.
  194. ^ "Slater re-signs as Queensland Maroons head coach". QRL. 6 June 2024.
  195. ^ a b "NRL Hall of Fame 2024 Class". NRL. NRL Media Release. 14 August 2024. Retrieved 14 August 2024.
  196. ^ Honeysett, Stuart (6 September 2011). "Billy Slater fends off late Benji Marshall rush to grab Dally M Medal". The Australian. News Corp. Archived from the original on 7 September 2011. Retrieved 6 September 2011.
  197. ^ "Johnathan Thurston – 2005 Dally M Winner". League Unlimited. Retrieved 29 November 2018.
  198. ^ Shawn Dollin and Andrew Ferguson (31 August 2015). "Custom Match List". rugbyleagueproject.org.
  199. ^ Shawn Dollin and Andrew Ferguson (31 August 2015). "Custom Match List". rugbyleagueproject.org.
  200. ^ "Billy Slater, Nicole Rose in Cairns wedding". The Cairns Post. Australia. 29 November 2009. Retrieved 29 November 2009.
  201. ^ Chamberlin, Thomas (29 October 2008). "Billy Slater's baby joy". The Cairns Post. Australia. Retrieved 25 November 2008.
edit
 
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Billy Slater.
Sporting positions
Preceded by Coach
 
Queensland
2022-present 		Succeeded by
Incumbent
Preceded by Dally M Top Try Scorer in the NRL
(with Shaun Berrigan)
2005 		Succeeded by
Preceded by Dally M Fullback of the Year
2008 		Succeeded by
Preceded by Golden Boot Award
Rugby League World International Player of the Year
2008 		Succeeded by
Preceded by
Inaugural
 Australia's Greatest Athlete Winner
2009, 2010 		Succeeded by
Preceded by Clive Churchill Medallist
2009 		Succeeded by
Preceded by Dally M Medallist
2011 		Succeeded by
Retrieved from "https://en.wiki.x.io/w/index.php?title=Billy_Slater&oldid=1263965623"