Billy Slater issued a rebuke to former Blues forward Aaron Woods, calling out his “grub” jibe and warning of the real-world impact careless insults can have.
The Queensland coach spoke passionately at the final State of Origin Game II press conference in Perth, referencing the tragic passing of former Maroons coach Paul Green, in urging media figures to show greater responsibility with their words.
Woods had labelled Slater a “grub” for axing veteran halfback Daly Cherry-Evans from the team.
“You’re not talking to your mates in the pub”
“When you degrade someone personally in a derogatory manner, you probably don’t deserve one of those privileged positions that you’re all in, that we’re all in,” Slater said to loud applause from the Maroons faithful.
“Although I might be able to handle it, the next person mightn’t be. Maybe our last coach didn’t.
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“When you hold a position in the media or in our game, I feel that’s a privilege and with that privilege comes a responsibility. I sit in that position most weeks, and you amplify your voice to millions of people. You’re not talking to your mates in the pub.”
Slater also questioned Woods’ integrity, referencing a recent friendly interaction where the ex-forward introduced his son to the coach without a hint of animosity.
Maroons captain Cameron Munster threw his support behind Slater, saying: “When you’ve got a guy like Billy Slater as your coach and what he’s done in the game, it does hurt a little bit, especially the comments from someone in particular.”
Queensland must win in Perth to level the series and avoid back-to-back Origin defeats.