Former Queensland and Australian representative star Darius Boyd has been appointed the new head coach of the Queensland under-19 State of Origin team.
In taking the role, the former fullback and winger takes over from Ben Te'o who has taken a fulltime job at the Brisbane Broncos as part of Michael Maguire's new look staff.
Boyd was an assistant to Te'o last year, with this to be his first head coaching role.
โIt's a challenge these boys will need to rise to. I want to set the expectations high and make sure they understand what it means to play for Queensland,โ Boyd said of his appointment.
"They'll know the history, the people, the culture, family, and friendsโฆ It's about respecting the maroon jersey every time you step onto the field. That respect will allow them to thrive and grow."
Boyd will be assisted by former champion dummy half Andrew McCullough and long-term mentor Jesse Maclean who has worked with Queensland pathways for a number of years.
โIt's a great opportunity for all three of usโAndrew, Jesse, and myselfโto develop the emerging Queensland players,โ Boyd said.
โImparting that knowledge is crucial in developing the next generation.โ
Boyd, who scored 17 State of Origin tries in 28 appearances, and another 16 tries for Australia across 23 Tests, finished his NRL career with 341 games and a pair of premierships under his belt.
The new head coach was also the Clive Churchill Medalist for the Dragons in their 2010 premiership success, and said he would be looking to help the players through the biggest game of their career.
โFor many of these boys, this will be the biggest game of their careers so far,โ Boyd said.
โDefence wins these big games. We'll work on the basics, ball control, line speedโฆall the little things.โ
Queenslands' under-19 outfit, which is likely to feature a handful of players with NRL experience, will clash with the junior Blues on the Sunshine Coast on Thursday, June 19.
