Melbourne Storm fullback Billy Slater has officially announced his retirement from the NRL, effective at the end of the season.
Slater, who made his debut for the Storm in Round 1 of the 2003 season and is a one-club player, will go down as one of the greatest players to ever lace up a boot.
Fighting back tears during his press conference, Slater talked about his career.
“For 16 years I’ve had the pleasure to play in the NRL, but this will be my last and I’m retiring at seasons’ end,” said Slater.
“18 years ago I made a decision to pack my car up and drive for 20 hours to chase my dream. Four months later, this club gave me that chance.”
The fullback has played 313 club games as it stands. With four games left in the regular season plus finals, he could finish on 321 if he plays every game and the Storm make the grand final.
Slater paid respects to his coach during the press conference.
“Thanks for believing in me,” said Slater.
“You taught me the harder you work the luckier you get and I have no doubt that my career would not have been as successful or consistent if you didn’t instil that work ethic in me.”
Making his State of Origin debut in 2004, Slater has played 31 games for the Queensland Maroons, being involved in a staggering amount of series victories over New South Wales.
He also played 30 games for Australia, making his debut in 2008. He went on to be named player of the World Cup in the same year and has scored 27 tries in the green and gold.
Slater’s coach Craig Bellamy said Slater had helped rugby league grow in Victoria.
“It’s a sad day in one way, without a doubt. Having said that, we should be celebrating what’s been an unbelievable career. Sixteen years he’s been in Melbourne and it’s probably not talked about a whole heap but there wouldn’t be as many kids playing rugby league in Victoria if it weren’t for Billy Slater,” said Bellamy.
Slater and the Storm will now turn their attention to the final four rounds of the season with Melbourne set to host the Sharks and Eels in the next fortnight, before playing the Titans and Panthers on the run to the finals.
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